“If You Want It Bad Enough, You’ll Find a Way” — The Black Clover
In a world where most are content with comfort, Forrest “The Black Clover” is the rare breed who thrives in chaos. From hauling freight across the country to pulverizing opponents in the cage, Forrest’s journey is nothing short of cinematic. In this hard-hitting episode of Happy Hour Holidaze, co-hosts Sean and Manny Febre team up with Vince Serrano and Joey Lumpkin to dive deep into the life of a man who’s redefining what it means to hustle.
Let’s peel back the layers of grit, passion, and purpose that define the fighter with anime roots, a trucker’s work ethic, and a warrior’s heart.
From Dade City to Dominance
Forrest hails from Dade City, Florida, one of eight brothers in a household where roughhousing was the norm. Wrestling wasn’t just a sport—it was a daily ritual. He followed in his older brother’s footsteps, taking up wrestling in high school at East Bay, and later pivoted into MMA after being inspired by a former opponent who transitioned into the sport.
“I wanted to get my get-back,” Forrest shared, recounting how his first MMA fight was fueled by a grudge—and later became a passion.
Trucking by Day, Training by Night
Forrest lives a dual existence. By day, he drives a truck, sometimes across state lines. By night, he trains like a full-time athlete.
“I used to drive to Texas and back. I’d train in the mornings, sleep, and then head back out at night. It’s about how bad you want it.”
He transformed the back of his trailer into a makeshift gym—doing pull-ups, jumping rope, watching fight replays—all while managing a diet that would challenge even the most disciplined athlete. Forrest doesn’t make excuses; he makes adjustments.
The Amateur Run: 8-0 and Hungry for More
With an amateur record of 8-0, Forrest decided to go pro for one very honest reason: “I wanted to get paid.”
He’d become too close to other fighters in his region—training with them, developing friendships. That made scheduling local fights a challenge, so he took his skills on the road, fighting in places like Georgia and Indiana. His adaptability and willingness to travel are key markers of a fighter who sees the bigger picture.
The Weight-Cutting Science & Nutrition Revolution
One of Forrest’s most significant transformations came through his partnership with Joey Lumpkin and Venom Nutrition. Before teaming up, Forrest was just grinding—training, cutting weight, and dealing with daily soreness.
Now? He’s supplementing intelligently. Creatine HCL. Amino acids. Macronutrient tracking. “Joey really changed my recovery game,” he says. “I didn’t realize what I was missing.”
His nutrition isn’t just a support mechanism—it’s become a strategic weapon in his MMA arsenal.
Brazil, Brotherhood, and Black Belts
Forrest doesn’t just train locally. He’s ventured to Brazil for elite-level preparation, testing himself against Muay Thai veterans and jiu-jitsu prodigies. In one humbling story, Forrest recalls sparring with a 16-year-old white belt who handled him like a seasoned vet.
“That kid was rolling with black belts every day. He was strong as hell. That’s when I knew Brazil hits different.”
Training in sweltering gyms without AC, eating acai bowls, and immersing himself in pure fight culture, Forrest came back sharper and more committed than ever.
The First Loss — And The Vow That Followed
After an 8-0 amateur run and strong pro momentum, Forrest tasted defeat in July 2023. It was a clean shot he didn’t see coming—his eye was already swollen shut. But the pain wasn’t physical. It was emotional.
“I looked at my son’s face and said, ‘No more losing in front of you.’”
That moment sparked a transformation. He revamped his training, embraced proper supplementation, and came back with a vengeance—scoring a first-round TKO in his next bout at NFC 173.
The Showman Within the Warrior
Black Clover isn’t just a name. It’s a brand. Forrest takes pride in entertaining—his walkouts are theatrical, dramatic, and unforgettable. Chained entrances, face paint, themed gear—he’s building a persona as much as he’s building a resume.
“In this era, fighters have to be content creators too,” Forrest explains. “I’m still building my platform, but I want to stand out.”
Whether it’s anime-themed intros or wild hairstyles (that once caused controversy mid-fight), Forrest is here to put on a show.
Fight Night on the Horizon: June 21st at the Coliseum
Catch Forrest in action at Combat Night on June 21st in St. Petersburg, Florida. He’s fighting Paulo Gaines, a Jiu-Jitsu specialist, and Forrest is more than ready.
You can support him directly by purchasing tickets through his link: @BlackClover_MMA
Use code BLACKCLOVER15 for discounts on Venom Nutrition supplements.
Lessons from a Fighter: Advice for the Next Generation
When asked what advice he’d give to up-and-comers, Forrest didn’t hesitate:
“Be committed. Be disciplined. There will be sacrifices—people you can’t hang out with, foods you can’t eat, nights you’ll cry. But if you want it, you’ll find a way.”
He adds that today’s young fighters have more tools—social media, sponsorships, digital communities—but the grind is still the same.
Life Beyond the Cage
Outside of fighting, Forrest is a dedicated father, an anime lover, and—surprisingly—a gifted artist. His sons participate in jiu-jitsu and soccer, and Forrest is already passing down the lessons of discipline and dedication to them.
He trains kids, shares time with his sponsors, and supports his local gym communities. Forrest’s long-term goal? Open his own gym and mentor the next generation.
Why Black Clover Is Built Different
In a sport that eats the weak and tests the strong, Forrest “The Black Clover” stands as a symbol of resilience. He’s more than a fighter. He’s a builder—of his brand, of his body, and of his future. While others make excuses, he makes moves. And while many dream, he executes.
This episode of Happy Hour Holidaze isn’t just an interview—it’s a roadmap for every dreamer grinding two jobs while chasing one vision.
Follow Forrest “The Black Clover”
Instagram: @BlackClover_MMA
Sponsors: Venom Nutrition, Felicia Cakes & Treats, Blitz Energy, K4 Studios, Team Reaper, GMC Mills, Mayhem Wrestling Club, Champions MMA
Use Code: BLACKCLOVER15 for discounts
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