268 – Charlie “The Spaniard” Brenneman : Professional mixed martial arts fighter, speaker, mentor & author

Following a successful high school wrestling career, Charlie took his talents to Lock Haven University where he achieved a top 12 finish at Division I Nationals and 1st Team All-Academic.

After teaching Spanish for three years and winning Spike TV’s Pros vs. Joes, Charlie decided to leave his job to pursue a master’s degree and begin his professional fighting career—“The Spaniard” was born.

In 2011, he was ranked as high as #7 in the world, and in 2015, he published his autobiography, Driven: My Unlikely Journey from Classroom to Cage. Charlie currently lives in PA with his wife and daughter.

In 2007, “The Spaniard” left the comfort of his hometown and full-time job as a Spanish teacher to pursue a career in mixed martial arts.  What started out as a dream soon turned into reality. “The Spaniard” has fought at every level of the industry, including an 11-fight UFC career.

After upsetting #6 ranked Rick Story in 2011, Charlie skyrocketed into the world rankings and went head-to-head with the best fighters in the world, such as UFC Champion Johny Hendricks and #1 ranked light heavyweight Anthony “Rumble” Johnson.

“The Spaniard” has transitioned his experiences as a professional fighter into professional speaking and mentoring.

While illustrating specific principles and examples that helped propel him to the top of the fighting world, Charlie provides a very real, authentic look at what it takes to succeed in life.

Within the exterior of a professional fighter lies insight and perspective that comes after a lifetime full of successes and setbacks. Charlie’s desire and ability to overcome obstacles is relentless.

“I’ve been knocked out cold on live television, and I’ve lived out my own “Rocky” story in front of a million people. My goal is to share my experiences with people who want to be more and do better.”

Visit Charlie’s Website