UFC fighters Uriah Hall and Demetrious Johnson stopped by theGrio to share what encouraged them to start martial arts training and discuss African-American figures who have impacted their lives.
Born in Jamaica, Hall moved to New York City during adolescence. He was bullied for being different and as a result started taking karate lessons as a teen.
After years of training, Hall became an instructor, saying his most valuable advice is, “don’t give up.”
Johnson said he grew up playing multiple sports and was very into fighting video games. The UFC flyweight champion said fighting became a good way to express his imagination.
While Johnson noted a wide group of people, in particular President Obama as having impacted black history, Hall said one musician in particular had a large impact on him personally.
Watch the interview above to find out who.
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