On Episode 39 of the Ol' Boy Podcast, host Chad Ward sits down with Layne Viernes, better known as "Da Crazy Hawaiian," to dive deep into the world of slap fighting. As a pioneer and current super heavyweight champion, Viernes shares his thrilling journey, challenges, and accomplishments within this unconventional sport. From humble beginnings in Hawaii to a highly anticipated match in Abu Dhabi, this episode offers an engrossing look at the life and career of one of slap fighting's most iconic figures.
A Diverse Athletic Background
Layne Viernes grew up in Hawaii, engaging in various sports like football and boxing. His passion for athleticism was nurtured early on, despite the setback of his parents’ separation during his childhood. This break led to a temporary pause in his football career, which he later rekindled in his senior year thanks to the support of his stepfather. Post-high school, Layne entered the workforce in construction—a career he'd maintain until a significant shift led him to the slap fighting arena. The skills and discipline learned through sports undeniably laid the groundwork for his success in his current field.
Comic Relief and Product Endorsements
While discussing his construction work, Layne humorously brought up the inevitable discomfort blue-collar workers often face, comically referred to as "swamp ass." To counter this, Viernes endorses "Happy Sack Nut Love Cooling Cream" by Durham Dude, a product he praises for its effectiveness. This not only added levity to the conversation but also showcased how endorsements can seamlessly integrate into personal experiences, providing genuine utility.
The Genesis of a Slap Champion
Layne Viernes journey into slap fighting is both surprising and inspirational. Initially intrigued by a YouTube video featuring an opponent called "Dumpling," Layne soon found himself at a nearby slap competition advertised as "So you think you can slap?" Despite arriving with his wife—who was taken aback by the sudden decision—Layne’s commitment was unwavering. This defining moment marked the start of his slap fighting career, characterized by resilience and determination.
The Viral Fight
One of the pivotal moments in Layne's career was his fight against the "hillbilly hippie," an event shrouded in tension and anticipation. This match, spanning an astonishing 21 rounds, saw Layne knock his opponent into the crowd in the sixth round. The fight's electrifying nature resonated globally as it went viral, further amplified by the COVID-19 lockdowns, making it a sensation among online audiences.
Dedication and Mentality
Throughout the conversation, Layne emphasized his positive mindset and commitment to his sport, tackling new challenges fearlessly and learning from failures. Layne’s philosophy centers on living a life of no regrets and seizing every opportunity. It's this mentality that has driven him to proactively manage his promotions, organize events, and even take part in the sport during unpaid initial fights—all aimed at building a reputable standing in slap fighting.
Pioneering the Sport
Layne Viernes has been instrumental in formalizing the slap fighting sport, from creating rule sets to supporting other promotions. Comparing its potential growth to early MMA, Layne envisions a mainstream future for the sport. His efforts saw him collaborating with prominent figures like Dana White, and being courted by the Paul brothers, yet his commitment to the sport's longevity guided his decisions.
A Glimpse into Personal Life
Beyond the ring, Layne is a dedicated family man with six children. His decision to transition full-time into slap fighting was made after losing his construction job, backed by unwavering support from sponsors and faith in this new career path. Local Hawaiian sponsors like Derm Dude and Get Nuts played crucial roles in his journey, highlighting the importance of community support.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Layne’s immediate focus is on his upcoming fight in Abu Dhabi on October 24, where he plans to share his experiences on social media. He envisions competing more frequently, transforming slap fighting into a sustainable career path akin to MMA. Layne remains optimistic, poised to take slap fighting to new international heights, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Conclusion
The episode with Layne Viernes offers a riveting glimpse into the world of slap fighting from an insider’s perspective. His story exemplifies resilience, innovation, and an undying passion for sport. As Layne looks forward to making waves in Abu Dhabi, he continues to inspire others with his fearless approach and visionary ambitions, making "Da Crazy Hawaiian" a name synonymous with slap fighting excellence.
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"The sport will not stop growing. That's one thing I preach to everybody." -Layne Viernes
3 Fun Facts About Layne
Layne Viernes, known as “Da Crazy Hawaiian," endorses a product called "Happy Sack Nut Love Cooling Cream" for preventing discomfort during physical labor.
Layne fought an opponent nicknamed "hillbilly hippie" for 21 rounds, knocking him into the crowd and eventually winning when his opponent quit. The video went viral.
Layne Viernes received a call from Dana White expressing interest in collaborating on slap fighting, valuing Layne's organizational skills for the sport's development.
