Indigenous 100 Podcast

Episode 49 – KAI KARA-FRANCE

Indigenous 100 Podcast

Show Notes

Ranked 4th in the UFC flyweight rankings, Kaiwhare Kara-France embodies the resilience of a true warrior. With 24 wins under his belt, he’s undeterred by setbacks, including controversial losses.

Descended from Waikato, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngārauru, Te Āti Haunui a Pāpārangi, Kara-France infuses his fighting spirit with the teachings of his ancestors. A proud Māori who wears his heart on his sleeve, he honours his heritage through te reo Māori and tikanga both in and out of the octagon.

Having turned to martial arts after facing childhood bullying, Kara-France now champions its values across Aotearoa. Besides his professional fighting career, he coaches the Warriors NRL team, enhancing their wrestling technique for UFC 300.

Training at CKB City Kickboxing alongside UFC legend Israel Adesanya under coach Andre Baremen, Kara-France embodies comradery and dedication. In a candid podcast with Julian Wilcox on Indigenous 100, he shares insights into life’s challenges, juggling fatherhood, marriage, and fighting while promoting Māori culture.

Kaiwhare Kara-France’s journey exemplifies the spirit of perseverance, inspiring others to overcome obstacles and embrace their cultural heritage.

More from Indigenous 100 Podcast

Jan 22, 2025

With a deep love for people and a genuine desire to give his absolute all to his mahi, Dr. Reuben Collier has always approached his work with the right intentions and a true commitment to understanding. It is this authenticity that has naturally drawn elders to open up to him, they believed in him—no matter who, where, or what the kaupapa may be.

Jan 14, 2025

Reflecting on his youth, Wiremu Doherty shares a story of simplicity and deep connection to the world around him, offering a profound glimpse into the resourcefulness that shaped his journey. As a hunter-gatherer even from his preschool years, these formative experiences laid the foundation for the remarkable insights he now weaves into the influential roles he holds today.

Jan 7, 2025

A life-altering accident could have ended Gordon Toi’s path as an artist, but instead, it deepened his passion for his art and turned his own pain into a vessel to help others navigate their own—particularly through the sacred and profound process of giving and receiving tā moko.

Dec 30, 2024

Colonialism’s impact runs deep, shaping how indigenous peoples are perceived both at home and abroad. Ironically, outside one’s home country, there is often recognition, respect, and admiration for our uniqueness and resilience.

Dec 24, 2024

AI has become an increasingly prominent part of our daily lives, rapidly advancing in knowledge and significance. As it continues to evolve, Dan reflects on the importance of nurturing our relationship with this global tool, exploring how we can harness it for positive outcomes while addressing common misconceptions.

See all episodes →