How Ed Soares Built the Pipeline to the UFC | Coffeez

How Ed Soares Built the Pipeline to the UFC | Coffeez

From Coffeez with Joe Shalaby by Joseph Shalaby

May 16, 2026 · 47 min

About this episode

Joe Shalaby interviews Ed Soares about his influential role in mixed martial arts and the business side of fighter development.

In this episode of Coffeez for Closers, Joe sits down with Ed Soares , President of Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) and one of the most respected figures in mixed martial arts. Ed has spent decades inside the fight game, from managing some of the biggest names in MMA to helping build the next generation of world-class fighters through LFA. Known for his work with legends like Anderson Silva, Lyoto Machida, and José Aldo, Ed has played a major role in shaping the careers of athletes who changed the sport forever. This conversation goes beyond the cage. Joe and Ed talk about loyalty, fighter development, the business side of MMA, what separates real champions from talented fighters, and how LFA continues to serve as one of the strongest pipelines to the UFC. If you love combat sports, entrepreneurship, leadership, or the mindset behind elite performers, this episode gives you a rare look at the people building the future of MMA. Hosted by Joseph Shalaby Coffeez for Closers Podcast Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

People in this episode

Host: Joe Shalaby

Guest: Ed Soares

Topics covered

  • mixed martial arts
  • fighter development
  • business of MMA
  • loyalty
  • entrepreneurship
  • elite performance

Keywords

  • MMA
  • UFC
  • fighter management
  • combat sports
  • leadership
  • champions
  • LFA

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Legacy Fighting Alliance

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