DISCIPLINED DISCIPLE - Frank Waindle Carries His Tenacious Style Into Blue Belt Nogi

HOUSTON - In an event with a lineup as packed as the upcoming 98th Submission Hunter, it can be easy for some matches to fall by the wayside. But even the so-called “minor” matches will be full of excitement and demonstrations of high-level grappling. The 200 lb. Blue Belt Nogi match between Frank Waindle and Joshua Garza is one such bout to watch out for.

Waindle is looking forward to not only his own bout, but the entire event. In an interview with Clear Life Media, he said, “From the kids who really send it and go after it, to the adults that come out and compete for the title bouts on the main card, or lower belts like me, it’s going to be high energy, and enjoyable.”

All levels of competition are a spectacle in their own way. Waindle is assured that his own style will bring a unique flavor to his match, even if it may be lower stakes.

“I’m very tenacious,” said Waindle on his grappling style. “I’m always thinking, always moving.”

Also on the fight card as one of the main matches is Waindle’s teacher, Eddie Avelar. Spurred by passion for the discipline, Waindle is empowered and hopes to represent his gym at Ground Dwellers Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

“I feel very privileged to be on the card with professor Eddie Avelar,” said Waindle. “Being on the card… is just a sign of the great community we have at the school. To be part of that is something I’m truly grateful for.”

Waindle is a true student of jiu-jitsu at his core, and competed in the last edition of Submission Hunter, with his match against Josh Webb going the full six minutes. Apart from his stint with Submission Hunter, he is a regular competitor at the Houston competitions for the Jiu-Jitsu World League, at which he boasts 9 wins by submission.

Of his passion for the discipline, Waindle said “I always tell people jiu-jitsu will change your life if you let it.”

Submission Hunter 98 will take place on Friday, July 25th, 2025, and can be viewed on UFC Fight Pass, or in-person at Bayou City Event Center in Houston, Texas. Get your tickets at https://www.subhunterpro.tv/buy-tickets