#257 Haze “The Huntsman” Hepi - BKFC Heavyweight Fighter
Watch the episode here
Listen to the podcast here
Haze “The Huntsman” Hepi - is rapidly rising as one of the world’s top-ranked heavyweight bare knuckle fighters, representing New Zealand and Australia’s Gold Coast with ferocious knockout power and warrior spirit. Known for his devastating performances inside the BKFC Ring, Haze is more than just a fighter — he’s a proud Māori warrior, dedicated family man, entrepreneur, and founder of his clothing brand H2K “Hard 2 Kill,” and creator of Hepic Tequila. In this powerful episode, Haze sits down with The Mountain Side host Bobby Marshall for his first-ever podcast recorded in America, on location in Daytona Beach, Florida. From his roots and rise in combat sports to his relentless mindset and vision beyond fighting, this conversation delivers an inside look at one of bare knuckle’s most dangerous heavyweights and inspiring rising stars.
-
The Mountain Side Podcast recently featured a captivating episode recorded on location in Daytona Beach, Florida, with Australia’s own Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) heavyweight fighter, Haze "The Huntsman" Hepi. Haze, known for his fearsome presence in bare-knuckle boxing, shared his journey, insights into his culture, and the motivations driving his fighting career.
Meeting Haze Hepi The episode opens with a warm welcome from the podcast host, expressing the honor and privilege of having Haze on the show. Despite the usual challenges of international travel and time differences, the two managed to sit down and have an in-depth conversation amidst the scenic backdrop of Daytona Beach.
Life in the Limelight As Haze speaks about his experiences with BKFC and the unique journey from Australia to America, he sheds light on his acceptance into the bare-knuckle community. He illustrates the blend of sports and entertainment at BKFC events and the challenges of navigating a new landscape where concert promotions occasionally take precedence over the traditional fight promotion.
The Fighter’s Journey Haze shares personal anecdotes from his past fights, providing vivid recollections of bouts that shaped his career. One particularly memorable fight was his intense rivalry with Kristof, highlighting the mixture of strategy and raw emotion in the ring. Haze describes handling setbacks, the mental battles preceding his triumphant victories, and the artistic nature of his fighting style inspired by historical generals like Genghis Khan.
Cultural Roots and Identity In a heartfelt segment, Haze delves into his Maori heritage, discussing the cultural significance of performing a haka before fights. He reflects on the historical oppression faced by Maori people and the importance of preserving cultural identity through challenging times. This aspect of his persona adds depth to his character, bringing a rich cultural tapestry to his identity as a fighter.
Finding Purpose Through Fighting Throughout the podcast, Haze touches on the critical importance of having a purpose, especially for men in modern society. He highlights how fighting has provided him with a sense of direction, allowing him to strive towards financial liberation for his family and personal fulfillment. This philosophy resonates deeply with listeners, offering a powerful message about the necessity of perseverance and passion. -
The episode with Haze "The Huntsman" Hepi is more than a look into the world of combat sports; it’s a window into the life of a man living his purpose with fierce dedication. The mountain side conversation captures the essence of what it means to fight—not just in the ring, but in life. With his eyes set on the future, Haze promises to continue inspiring others with his story and leaves listeners eagerly anticipating his next steps in the BKFC and beyond. For more in-depth discussions and behind-the-scenes stories, listen to the full episode on The Mountain Side Podcast.