#266 Josh Fremd - PFL Middleweight & Bare-Knuckle Boxer
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Josh Fremd - is a professional mixed martial artist, UFC veteran, PFL middleweight, and BKFC bare-knuckle fighter. Currently ranked #9 in the PFL middleweight division, Fremd is fighting out of Denver, Colorado, by way of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Fremd began training during his senior year of high school and stepped into the cage for the first time as a college freshman. After capturing two amateur titles and finishing his amateur career at 8-2, he transitioned to the professional ranks, eventually earning LFA’s 2020 Fighter of the Year honors and a shot in the UFC. Following a six-fight run in the UFC, Fremd has entered the next chapter of his career with serious momentum. He currently holds a 13-6 professional MMA record and has put together three consecutive combat-sports victories, including back-to-back stoppage wins in the PFL. Fremd has also crossed into bare-knuckle boxing, making his BKFC debut in Denver in April 2026 and scoring a first-round knockout over Jared Torgeson, earning Performance of the Night honors and moving his BKFC record to 1-0. With experience across the UFC, LFA, PFL, Bellator, and BKFC, Fremd continues to establish himself as a dangerous and versatile combat athlete with his sights set on a PFL world championship.
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In the latest episode of The Mountain Side, listeners were treated to an inspiring conversation with combat sports veteran Josh Fremd. Host Bobby and Josh delved into an engaging dialogue that covered everything from overcoming personal struggles to success in combat sports, shedding light on the remarkable journey of a fighter dedicated to reclaiming his dream.
Welcome Back, Josh Fremd returned to The Mountain Side studio buoyed by his recent victories in the PFL Middleweight Division, coming off an impressive win streak that includes bare-knuckle boxing in Denver. Bobby couldn't have been more excited to host Josh again, especially following a transformative year for the fighter.
An Honest Conversation About Defeat and Resilience This episode's candid conversation revealed the human side of a professional fighter. Previously, Josh had joined the podcast after losses, which brought a reflective and somber tone. Today, however, he was able to celebrate his resurgence, discussing how the challenges he faced, both professionally and personally, allowed him to shed an old skin and embody a more resilient self.
Life Lessons on Bouncing Back Josh and Bobby emphasized the wisdom that comes with age, particularly when you hit your thirties. For Josh, this meant turning from a state of self-doubt and isolation in the wake of being cut from the UFC to a committed effort to regain control over his life. Through their discussion, Josh imparted invaluable advice: Do not waste time, and when adversity strikes, face it head-on.
Rebuilding from Rock Bottom One of the most compelling parts of the podcast was Josh recalling his experiences through the toughest parts of his career. Despite having faced numerous adversities—from getting cut by the UFC due to missing weight to falling into vices and eventually hitting rock bottom—Josh's story is one of rebirth. With the support of his brother and a newfound position at Solera National Bank, Josh clawed his way back, proving the relevance of having a support system and the importance of inner fire.
Finding a New Path in Combat Sports While discussing his future aspirations, Josh noted that rejoining the UFC was less important than enjoying the fights and being financially secure. Currently ranked number nine in PFL, Josh has his sights set on a title shot next year, ready to continue showcasing the new vigor he's found in the arena.
The Role of Community and Support Throughout the episode, Josh credited many people and organizations in the martial arts community with helping him get back into fighting shape and regain focus. From local gyms to friends who pushed him to compete in jujitsu once more, the combined support was integral to his return.
The Importance of Sharing Your Story Josh touched upon the value of authenticity and sharing one's story, relating how opening up in a podcast setting can be therapeutic and help someone facing similar challenges. Both he and Bobby emphasized the significant impact of raw, unedited conversations in podcasting, which allow audiences to truly connect and understand the journey and struggles others face.
A Bright Future Ahead As the podcast concluded, Josh thanked everyone who had supported him on his tumultuous yet enlightening journey. With the mountains in the backdrop, Josh Fremd's story stands as a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of determination. Bobby and fans of the show eagerly await what’s next for Josh, a true fighter aiming to inspire others through his remarkable comeback.