Why it's the fighter, not the coach, that defines success

Hey, what's up, everyone? Today, I want to dive into a topic that's close to my heart and might ruffle some feathers in the coaching community. As someone who's been both a fighter and a coach, I think it's crucial to be real about the dynamics between fighters and coaches.

The Essence of a Fighter

Let's kick things off by addressing a simple truth: It's always the fighter more than the coach. This might sound controversial, but there's wisdom in the famous words about Brock Lesnar: “You can't turn chicken shit into chicken salad.” There are individuals born with a natural flair for fighting. They’re mentally strong, fast, intelligent, and athletic. They possess attributes like speed, power, or height coupled with a fierce willpower.

Natural Attributes and Competitive Spirit

Some fighters walk into the gym with these inherent qualities that make them stand out. Whether it's mental resilience, agility, or raw strength, these attributes set them apart. No matter how skilled a coach you are, without these naturally gifted individuals showing up at your gym, the challenge remains the same.

The Journey to World-Class Technique

Reflecting on my own experiences, I've traveled extensively to hone my skills. From five trips to Thailand for Muay Thai to over a month in Holland training Dutch kickboxing, my journey has been vast. Add to that a black belt in Olympic-style karate, a decade in Taekwondo, and over 16 years in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Oh, and let's not forget training with Iranian wrestlers. The wealth of techniques I've gathered is immense, but again, it's always about the fighter more than the coach.

Coaches and Their Role

Sure, coaches are pivotal. Yet, even the most profound techniques fall short if the right fighter doesn't walk through your doors. Imagine training someone for hours each day only to realize they might not progress as expected. It’s a harsh reality, but it's real.

The Competitive Edge

In the world of fighting, it often comes down to raw hunger and drive. Picture a street kid with a chip on his shoulder, driven by a fierce warrior spirit. Even with mediocre coaching, this individual can outperform a technically superior fighter simply because of their resilience.

A coach can teach you techniques, but making the leap depends on your inner drive.

A Word to Coaches

It's not uncommon to see some coaches get wrapped up in their fighters' victories, believing it makes them better than their peers. However, many factors play into a match beyond coaching prowess. A fighter's mental toughness, athleticism, and mere grit are significant contributors to their success.

Recognizing Potential

There's a reason many gyms offer free training to promising athletes. When budding talent walks in, gyms and coaches recognize their potential. I remember my path to the UFC – dedication and a mindset born from a tough upbringing were my driving forces. Coaches saw potential in me and often waived fees to ensure I stayed with them.

Loyalty in Coaching

Loyalty can be a double-edged sword. While finding great coaches who feel like a second family is invaluable, some don't warrant such loyalty. At the end of the day, you're the one stepping into the ring and facing the punches, not them.

Balancing Techniques and Natural Ability

Yes, coaching matters. Some coaches genuinely change a fighter's life, offering not just technical skills but also personal support through tough times. They're like second fathers, guiding you on and off the mat. Yet, the truth persists:

You can teach the soft guy the best technique in the world, but he's not going to beat the tough guy.

It's crucial for fighters to put in the work, be open to learning, and diligently apply techniques taught by their coaches.

Embracing Evolution as a Coach

If you're a coach, staying stagnant isn't an option. Learning new styles and staying updated with the latest techniques is essential. Despite the annoyance of coaches adopting new techniques without genuine experience, the growth mindset is commendable.

The Importance of Real Learning

I've encountered coaches claiming to have new insights without having left their hometowns or attended seminars. Authentic learning requires immersion. For instance, I've participated in seminars by world-class fighters like Dwayne Ludwig and Alistair Overeem, absorbing techniques from those with extensive fight histories.

Conclusion

Reflect on this: as a fighter, you’re the prize when you put in the effort and learn from your coach. As a coach, the goal is to evolve constantly. The journey of growth, whether as a fighter or a coach, isn't just about skill—it's about the determination and evolution of the human spirit.
Stay inspired, keep training, and remember, it’s more about the fighter than the coach.