
In this episode of Fight Capital, Ryan Rapaport sits down with Luis Melendez, an undefeated Karate Combat fighter with a background in Taekwondo and Karate from Puerto Rico. Luis shares his journey from balancing a full-time career as an electrical engineer to becoming one of the most exciting fighters in the pit. We discuss his viral moments, the business of being a fighter, and how @KarateCombat is changing the game for strikers.
Follow Luis Melendez on all platforms: @LuisFeMMA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luisfemma
Takeaways
・Luis comes from a karate family—his parents met through martial arts.
・He balances fighting professionally with a full-time job as an electrical engineer.
・Luis believes fighters must see themselves as a business to maximize opportunities.
・Karate Combat’s unique format and marketing approach help athletes build their brands.
・He embraces the entertainment side of fighting, even playing the role of a villain when needed.
・Luis was involved in one of the most viral moments in Karate Combat history.
・Working with Anthony Pettis taught him how to capitalize on big moments for long-term success.
・He is looking for sponsors to support his career and elevate his brand further.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Luis Melendez and His Journey
01:12 Growing Up in a Karate Family
02:51 Balancing Fighting with an Engineering Career
04:10 Why Karate Combat is Changing the Game for Strikers
05:47 Celebrity Influence and Brand Building in Combat Sports
07:49 The Importance of Social Media for Fighters
09:49 The Viral Moment That Put Luis on the Map
12:27 Lessons from Anthony Pettis on Business and Branding
14:13 Sponsors and Supporters Shoutout
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