UFC Fighter Slams Justin Trudeau

🎧 Podcast Episode 173 with Aiemann Zahabi

I had the chance to dive deep with Aiemann Zahabi, UFC fighter and vocal critic of politics in Canada. While we typically discuss philosophy and MMA, Aiemann didn’t hold back on his political views this time, particularly his discontent with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's policies.

Canada’s Declining Standards

For Aiemann, Canada has always stood for high living standards and great opportunities, but he feels this is changing. "The standard of living is falling," Aiemann told me. He attributes much of this to “inefficient policies” and “excessive spending,” arguing that tax dollars meant to support Canadians are instead going toward foreign aid initiatives that often lack clear value. To Aiemann, policies that fail to focus on internal improvements are failing Canadians.

On Canada’s Leadership Style

When asked about how sports and his MMA career inform his perspectives on leadership, Aiemann contrasted his own disciplined, straightforward approach with what he sees as evasion in Canadian politics. He expressed frustration with the way Canadian leaders, especially Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, routinely sidestep questions. Aiemann’s frustration with what he sees as disingenuous communication from leaders is one of the main reasons he’s leaning toward Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, whom he feels provides direct answers and a "common sense" approach.

The Carbon Tax and Rising Food Prices

Canada’s carbon tax policy is another point of contention for Aiemann. “Why take money from us only to give it back?” he asked. According to Aiemann, the rising costs associated with the carbon tax are making essentials like food more expensive, adding financial strain on the middle and lower classes. In his words, the “solution isn’t more taxes, but more efficiency.”

Aiemann, who runs a small business in produce transport, directly experiences the impact of these rising costs. He noted that the increased cost of fuel, partly due to the carbon tax, is driving up transportation expenses and, ultimately, food prices. Rather than imposing more taxes, he believes Canada should look to innovate and invest in cleaner extraction methods for its natural resources to strengthen the economy while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Criticism of Justin Trudeau

Aiemann didn't hold back on his views of Trudeau’s approach. “He’s got good intentions,” Aiemann said, “but intentions aren’t enough when policies don’t deliver real results.” For Aiemann, Trudeau’s focus on climate initiatives and foreign aid overshadows pressing issues like affordable living and infrastructure at home. He argues that Trudeau’s administration is more concerned with optics than with actual, impactful change and advises the Prime Minister to “start listening to the people” and consider adjusting policies that aren’t working. According to Aiemann, if Trudeau could acknowledge and correct these mistakes, it might help rebuild some of the public’s trust in him.

Is It Time for a Change?

As the interview continued, Aiemann shared his hope that Pierre Poilievre, if elected, would bring transparency and change to Ottawa. Aiemann’s respect for Poilievre stems from his straightforward communication style, something he feels is lacking in Trudeau’s administration. The possibility of a leader who is “more business-oriented” and grounded in common sense is appealing to Aiemann, who believes in efficient, measurable solutions.

This conversation was a departure from our usual focus on MMA, but it was insightful to hear Aiemann’s candid thoughts on Canadian politics. He doesn’t claim to have all the answers, but his frustration reflects that of many Canadians. He’s eager to see Canada return to what he calls its “glory days,” when people had faith in the government and opportunities felt abundant.