Coffee Time with Carlos Machado

Ep. 11 | UFC BJJ Welterweight Champ Andrew Tackett

Carlos Machado

What does it really take to become one of the best in the world?

In this episode of Coffee Time with Carlos Machado, Carlos sits down with elite grappler Andrew Tackett for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about competition, mindset, fear, and growth at the highest level of jiu-jitsu.

Andrew is one of the most exciting rising stars in modern Brazilian jiu-jitsu and submission grappling. Born on May 1, 2003 in Orange County, California, he grew up in Austin, Texas, where he began jiu-jitsu as a young kid after his father signed him up at a local gym. He later trained at Brazilian Fight Factory under coach Rodrigo “Brucutu” Cabral, a member of the Checkmat lineage. 

He’s known for an aggressive, high-pace grappling style and relentless submission chasing, earning him buzz on national circuits and major events.

Here, Andrew opens up about why he chases the toughest opponents — the names that make him nervous — and how that fear fuels his work ethic. He talks about the competitors he respects most, the difference between training and competition, and much more.

This episode is a real deep dive into pressure, clarity, and what it means to choose environments where the best fighter wins! 

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & welcoming Andrew Tackett
 02:15 – Andrew’s competitive mindset and love for tough challenges
 06:40 – Why fear is a signal for growth
 10:55 – Naming dream matchups and respected opponents
 16:30 – Respect for technicians and “gamers” of jiu-jitsu
 21:45 – Gi vs no-gi: training vs competition
 27:10 – Why Andrew loves training in the gi
 32:40 – Competition systems and fairness
 38:15 – Choosing environments where the best fighter wins
 44:20 – Art vs business in combat sports
 50:05 – Lessons learned from high-level competition
 55:30 – Final thoughts on growth, pressure, and longevity
 58:45 – Closing remarks

☕ Grab your coffee and enjoy Episode 11.

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Carlos Machado:
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Andrew Tackett:

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📺Youtube: www.youtube.com/@Andrew.Tackett