While many top jiu-jitsu athletes got their first big wins after they became black belts, it wouldn't be surprising if James Puopolo had already forgotten what it's like to NOT be successful. As a blue belt, he was a silver medalist at Worlds. He became a world and Pan American champion in 2009 as a purple belt, winning the ADCC Northwest Trials in the same year. As a brown belt, he won Pans again and brought home the gold at Grapplers Quest two years in a row.

And after earning his black belt six years ago, he's only doubled down on his efforts to keep his winning streak going.

Puopolo is taking the Fight to Win Pro stage for the fifth time on Friday, July 7, and he is getting the star treatment he deserves in the main event against James "300" Foster in Seattle. As someone who lives and trains in Oregon, Puopolo has stated that he's "excited" to not only be a part of the event but also see so many of his friends from the northwest competing on the card.

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​James Puopolo in action on the Fight To Win stage. Photo: Mike Calimbas

His trek to success wasn't achieved solo, though -- he's had a lot of guidance from his mentor, friend, and current Fight To Win Pro light heavyweight champion Rafael Lovato Jr., who gave Puopolo his black belt. Puopolo isn't shy about saying just how much Lovato's support has meant to him, either.

"Rafael is like a big brother to me. He's family," Puopolo said. "There's no question he is one of the best martial artists in the world. I've learned so much about jiu-jitsu from him. He's been with me through the highs and lows that come with doing jiu-jitsu professionally.

It's been fun to watch him grow as a person and martial artist over all these years too. There are many more peaks to reach in this journey together for sure.

While many competitors have taken the trash-talking route when it comes to their opponents, Puopolo also has nothing but respect for Foster. According to Puopolo, the two have known each other for a long time, and their match is long-awaited for local BJJ enthusiasts.

"[Foster] is a big, strong, technical fighter. I'm expecting him to come out and go for the submission, which is what I'm all about," Puopolo says.

For all his gratitude and humility, though, Puopolo still loves having the spotlight on him and feeling like a rock star, an atmosphere Fight to Win is famous for producing.

"[Fight to Win promoter Seth Daniels] has really put a lot of work into trying to promote professional jiu-jitsu," Puopolo said. "The vibe at a tournament is very different. I prefer the vibe of Fight To Win. One fight, big stage, perfect place to showcase your jiu-jitsu. It's less nerves and more excitement for these superfights."

Puopolo has full intentions of getting on even more Fight to Win cards in the future and fighting "the best in the world" on the stage, plus competing at major tournaments such as Masters and No-Gi Worlds.

Having recently become a father, Puopolo has been enjoying a lot of time with his wife and baby -- as expected -- but he's never stopped putting in the work to achieve his dreams.

There are still a lot of people who don't really know me and I plan on giving them a show on Friday.

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