Renowned EDM artist Steve Aoki has always had a passion for combat sports, but he recently decided to try his hand at jiu-jitsu for the first time, with some guidance from UFC star Diego Lopes.
“I’m feeling the adrenaline now,” Aoki exclaimed after his session at the Iridium Sports Agency office gym.
Lopes and Aoki first met at one of Aoki’s concerts in Guadalajara, Mexico, and have since become friends. Aoki even created a custom mix of “La Chona” for Lopes’ UFC 314 title challenge walkout in April.
At 47, Aoki credits the mindset he has gained from watching fights for helping him maintain a demanding tour schedule over a decade after his first Grammy nomination.
“The resilience, the training, the heart, the hard work,” Aoki reflected. “You’re putting your entire life in that octagon. That moment is something I admire. You all put your entire spirit in that octagon, and I respect that. I approach my life, my career, my shows, my music in the same way. It’s part of why I can still tour, create music, and connect with my audience.”
By stepping out of his comfort zone, Aoki believes he has discovered a new aspect of himself. Despite it being his first jiu-jitsu session, it certainly won’t be his last.
“I’ve realized how little I know,” Aoki admitted. “But I’ve found the inspiration and excitement to explore further. I used to fear it, shy away from it. I enjoyed watching it from a distance. Now, I’m prepared. So Diego, it’s all on you.”