U.S. Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) was recently featured on Politics Aside with Chris Cillizza, a show that explores the intersection of sports and politics. In the episode, Davids gets in the gym with Cillizza and discusses how her experience as a former professional MMA fighter has shaped her approach to leadership in Congress.

WATCH: The full episode can be found here, or a preview here

Davids began her MMA career as an amateur in 2006, achieving a 5–1 record, before turning professional in 2013 with a 1–1 record. She also tried out for The Ultimate Fighter. Afterward, Davids redirected her focus to working across the U.S. on Native American reservations, leading community development and economic programs.

In Congress, Davids has proven to be a resilient and effective leader, unseating a four-term incumbent in 2018 and consistently winning re-election by double digits in a district with more registered Republicans than Democrats. Even after Kansas Republicans gerrymandered her district, claiming they could “draw four Republican congressional maps” to defeat her, Davids has continued to gain broad support from voters in both parties.

Her ability to connect with constituents and stand strong in the face of political challenges reflects the same determination and grit she demonstrated in her MMA career, where she never got knocked out and fought to overcome the odds to emerge victorious. Her distinct background, including being raised by a single mom who served in the Army, continues to make her one of the most electable and relatable members of Congress.