Most relationships don’t fall apart because of cheating.

They fall apart because of ego.

Tone.

Triggers.

And the need to win.

In this episode of Fight for Love, Michael Jai White and Gillian White break down a powerful martial arts principle called “Rules of Courtesy” — and how applying it to love can completely transform your relationship.

What if the person you love isn’t your opponent?

From the infamous “pass the salt” argument to the quiet towel story that proves love lives in the small moments, this episode unpacks why so many couples accidentally turn into adversaries. Michael explains why trying to prove your partner wrong destroys connection — and why sometimes the strongest move is proving them right first.

They also tackle a hard truth:

“If doggish men didn’t get women, we wouldn’t be doggish.”

Why are toxic traits rewarded? Why do people keep choosing the wrong partners? And how do you break the cycle?

Plus, they answer a powerful caller question about proposing under pressure and what to do when you’re not ready for marriage.

This episode is raw, reflective, and honest.

Real love isn’t a competition.

It’s teamwork.

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Stop Competing With Your Partner

01:15 – The “Rules of Courtesy” Principle

03:10 – Tone, Triggers & Ego

05:25 – The “Pass the Salt” Moment

07:30 – Proving Them Right Before Proving Them Wrong

10:20 – The Towel Story (Love in Quiet Moments)

13:40 – Listening vs. Fixing

17:45 – The Viral Post That Sparked Relationship Conversations

26:30 – Why “Bad Boys” Keep Getting Chosen

35:50 – Jungle Triggers & The Abandonment Fight

39:50 – Proposal Pressure: When You’re Not Ready

45:00 – Final Thoughts: Fight for Love