By: Alexandra Perez
Jason Ingleston’s love for MMA began in 2002, at a time when the sport was still emerging into mainstream popularity. At this point, most people didn’t distinguish between judo and jiu-jitsu, and MMA was still an underground world. The million-dollar contracts and widespread media coverage we see today were not yet the norm.
“I wanted that experience,” Jason recalls, explaining the undeniable pull of the sport. His first fight wasn’t just about winning—it was about proving to himself that he could step into the ring, face his fears, and embrace a challenge that many people might hesitate to take on. It was a moment of catharsis, an opportunity for personal expression that transcended mere competition. Even in defeat, Jason gained something invaluable—an experience that had a lasting impact on him.
“MMA taught me resilience,” Jason reflects. “It wasn’t about winning or losing; it was about showing up, learning, and pushing through the discomfort.”
From Fighter to Poet: The Unexpected Path to Writing
While MMA gave Jason an outlet for his physical expression, he also turned to poetry to channel his emotions. What began as a simple love poem in middle school blossomed into a lifelong passion for writing. Writing wasn’t something Jason planned or sought—it was an organic process that helped him make sense of his emotions.
“I didn’t have forethought,” he shares. “It just came out of me, and when I looked back, I realized how much it reflected who I was.”
His poetry became a form of emotional therapy, an essential part of his personal healing journey. Jason’s first book, Scribbled Letters, is a collection of raw thoughts and emotions spanning decades, reflecting his struggles and triumphs. Writing became a deeply meaningful tool for self-reflection, one that ultimately helped him process difficult experiences.
“I think if I didn’t find writing, I’d probably be in a very different place today,” Jason admits. “Writing played a crucial role in my life.”
Healing Through Words: Writing as Therapy
Jason’s second book, Let Me Fall Apart, explores his experiences with heartbreak and personal loss. Written during one of the darkest periods of his life, the book became both a healing process and a path to self-discovery. Through writing, Jason gained a new perspective on his past, using words to rebuild his sense of self.
“The hardest part was not being afraid to show who I was,” he says. “But in doing so, I found my voice—and now, I’m proud of it.”
The Link Between MMA and Writing: Passion and Vulnerability
At first glance, MMA and poetry may seem like opposing forces. But for Jason, they share a common thread: passion. Whether in the ring or behind a desk writing, Jason poured his energy into both pursuits. For him, both MMA and writing are about self-expression, confronting inner turmoil, and embracing vulnerability.
“Fighting is about expression,” Jason explains. “In the cage, you can’t hide. You have to be real. Writing is the same—you can’t fake it.”
For Jason, transitioning from fighter to author was a natural progression. Both required authenticity a willingness to show up even when others didn’t understand his journey. In both fields, Jason dealt with imposter syndrome and self-doubt, but over time, he learned to quiet those inner critics.
“I was never afraid of getting hit in MMA,” Jason says. “But writing felt far more exposed at first. Once I embraced it, it was liberating. Both careers have taught me the importance of being vulnerable.”
Achieving Success on His Own Terms
Jason’s writing journey wasn’t without its challenges. He spent over 20 years working on his craft before publishing his first book, Scribbled Letters. Even then, he battled self-doubt, fear of rejection, and imposter syndrome. But through it all, he persevered.
“It took me over 20 years to write my first book,” Jason admits. “But when it came out, the response was more positive than I ever anticipated. I didn’t expect to debut at the top of Amazon—but it happened.”
Today, Jason has published six books, each showcasing a different facet of his creative process. His fourth book, The Path Ahead: 77 Insights to Improve Your Life, offers simple yet powerful wisdom designed to help others live better lives. Jason’s journey is no longer centered on seeking validation through victory in the cage. It’s about using his writing to offer insight and encouragement to others.
“I’ve done so much of what I set out to do,” Jason says. “I wanted to fight, I wanted to write, and now I’m living proof that passion can shape your path.”
A Journey of Self-Expression and Empowerment
Jason Ingleston’s journey illustrates that finding your voice is rarely a straightforward path. It takes time, persistence, and the courage to explore different avenues of self-expression. Whether through the intensity of MMA or the quiet introspection of writing, Jason has found ways to communicate his deepest emotions and connect with others. His story serves as a reminder that pursuing passions, embracing vulnerability, and staying true to oneself are powerful choices.
If there’s one thing Jason wants others to take away from his journey, it’s this: You are the author of your own story. No matter the obstacles, no matter how long it takes, your voice has value and deserves to be shared.
Published by Stephanie M.
