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<h3>UFC 328 STRICKLAND BACK ON TOP! – Complete Recap and Analysis </h3>What’s up, fight fans? UFC 328 went down last night, and let me tell you, it was a wild card full of twists, action, and pure grit. Whether you missed it or just want to relive all the best moments, I’ve got you covered with a detailed breakdown—fight by fight, round by round. We’ll dig into the performances, strategy, and all the little things that made this event so memorable. Let’s get into it!<h3>Main Card Recap</h3>First things first: UFC 328’s card had variety, drama, and some standout performances. Let’s kick off with the early fights and work our way through. Jeremy Stephens vs. Bobby GreenRight out of the gate, we got a matchup between two veterans: Jeremy “Lil’ Heathen” Stephens and Bobby “King” Green. Result: Bobby Green secures a first-round submission win via rear naked choke. How Did It Go Down?<ul><li>Both fighters are kind of at the twilight of their careers. </li><li>Green looked dominant from the start, showing he still has plenty left in the tank. </li><li>Stephens didn’t have much of a chance, since Green was just that quick to take his back and lock in the choke.</li></ul>What Stood Out:<ul><li>Green’s control and focus were impressive. </li><li>Not a ton to break down here—a quick finish by a vet who’s still got it.</li></ul><blockquote> “Both older guys ending their career, you know, slowly coming to a close on their career and, you know, Bobby Green got the win.”</blockquote>Takeaway: A simple, clean win for Green. Sometimes, the old-school guys still know how to put a show on.<h3>Brady’s Grappling Clinic</h3>Fight: Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley This is the fight that had every grappler and wrestling coach in the world paying attention. If you want to learn how to dominate on the mat, you study this one. What Made Brady’s Performance Special?<ul><li>Top Pressure: The main story here was how Sean Brady rode out Buckley with top control that could make even a black belt sweat. </li><li>American Grappling…The Russian Way: Brady isn’t just a good wrestler. He’s got that Russian style of control (think Khabib), where the guy on bottom is just stuck.</li></ul>Let’s lay it out:1. Traditional American Wrestling:<ul><li>Great takedowns </li><li>Explosive shots </li><li>But sometimes, they struggle to hold top position in MMA</li></ul>2. The Russian Approach:<ul><li>Excellent at taking the back or top mount </li><li>Suffocating pressure </li><li>Multiple attacks once they're on top</li></ul>Sean Brady brings both togetherBrady’s technique on top was textbook. He wasn’t just happy to score a takedown and rack up points. He wanted to ride Buckley, shut him down, and hunt for submissions—exactly what you want to see from a true MMA grappler.<blockquote>“There’s a lot of American wrestlers that are really good at wrestling, but they don’t have that black belt level top control where they can hold people down. Sean Brady has both.”</blockquote>Buckley’s Struggle<ul><li>Tried everything to stand up, but Brady just glued him to the canvas. </li><li>No real offense could get started for Buckley.</li></ul>The Outcome<ul><li>Brady: dominant from bell to bell </li><li>Grappling fans had to love it—even if it wasn’t the flashiest</li></ul>Props to Brady. If you love the ground game, this one is worth a rewatch.<h3>Volkov vs Cortez Acosta: Heavyweight Tactics</h3>Alright, let’s talk heavyweights. Alexander Volkov vs. Waldo Cortez Acosta How Did This Fight Play Out?<ul><li>Not the most action-packed heavyweight fight, but Volkov fought smart and used his reach. </li><li>He threw a lot of long strikes, leg kicks, and those dangerous straight punches. </li><li>Volkov looked every inch the 6’7” giant—he kept Acosta on the outside, staying clean and racking up points.</li></ul><blockquote>“Volkov, a lot of long strikes, a lot of leg kicks, a lot of straight punches. Fought like a six foot seven guy should do.”</blockquote>Tactics and Style<ul><li>Volkov: Volume, patience, using length. </li><li>Acosta: Struggled to close the distance, couldn’t get off the mark.</li></ul>Final Thoughts<ul><li>Close fight, but Volkov’s ring IQ and range got him the win. </li><li>Not a barnburner, but smart.</li></ul>What Could We See Next?With Volkov stringing together smart fights, he’s always a tough ask for any heavyweight looking to break into the top.<h3>Co-Main Event: Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira</h3>Now this was a co-main that got people on their feet. Fighters<ul><li>Joshua Van: Never say die attitude, plenty of heart. </li><li>Tatsuro Taira: The Japanese prodigy with ridiculous grappling.</li></ul>This matchup came with high expectations, and both guys delivered. Though, there’s something we HAVE to discuss: the ending. First Two Rounds: Grappling Clinic<ul><li>Taira demonstrated next-level grappling—getting mount again and again. </li><li>But Van wasn’t just stuck. Each time he was mounted, he pulled off an “earthquake” escape (named for how you shake your opponent off into butterfly guard).</li></ul>A Fun Coaching Note: Van’s repeated earthquake escapes are exactly what I teach my students. It’s not flashy, but when you get good at it, you never stay stuck on your back for long.<blockquote>“Van did a really good job of escaping the mount, got mounted a couple times, did a good earthquake mount escape to butterflies.”</blockquote>The Turnaround<ul><li>Third round, Van just started laying it on Taira. </li><li>His volume ramped up, and he was busting Taira up bad on the feet. </li><li>Taira tried to hang tough and didn’t want out, but the ref decided he’d seen enough and waved it off. </li><li>As much as it sucks for a title fight to end without someone getting that “warrior’s finish,” player safety comes first.</li></ul>Controversy Check:<ul><li>Some fans thought it was an early stoppage. </li><li>Van was in total control and Taira was taking big damage, so the result likely wouldn’t have changed.</li></ul>Quote to Remember<blockquote>“It’s a world title fight. You can’t stop a world title fight when a guy is willing to fight.”</blockquote>My Take<ul><li>Ref probably could have let it go a bit longer, but Van earned that W. </li><li>Both these guys have bright futures.</li></ul><h3>Main Event: Sean Strickland vs Khamzat Chimaev</h3>Now for the main event—this is what everybody was waiting for! Fighters<ul><li>Sean Strickland: Never the flashiest, but always tough as nails. Known for his iron chin and relentless pressure. </li><li>Khamzat Chimaev: Hype monster. Absolute destroyer in his earlier career, never tasted real adversity—until now.</li></ul>Round One: Fast Start, Fierce ExchangesChimaev came out hot, trying to assert himself early. His wrestling is as close as you get to “unstoppable,” but Strickland’s calm defense kept him from running away with it. What stood out?<ul><li>Strickland was already doing that classic pressure walk-down, jabbing Chimaev literally in the face over and over. </li><li>Chimaev landed some good shots, but couldn’t break through.</li></ul>Round Two: The Turning Point<ul><li>Big Moment: Strickland tags Chimaev with a clean right hand—Chimaev wobbles. </li><li>Chimaev played it off, faked that he was fine, but you could tell he was hurt. </li><li>Scramble ensues, Chimaev shoots and tries to save face by going for a takedown… but ends up pulling guard.</li></ul><blockquote>“He tried to bob and weave and he tried to move a little bit and like, like, and throw some feints and act like it, like play it off. But from what I saw, it looked like he got hurt.”</blockquote>The Rest of the Fight: Jab City<ul><li>Strickland’s jab was on point—over and over, doubling up, tripling up, changing the rhythm. </li><li>Chimaev slowed down, his gas tank starting to empty.</li></ul>Interesting Coaching Detail: I actually shot a video for my students about this, breaking down Strickland’s jab. He wasn’t doing crazy combos—mostly just 1-2’s and 1-2-3’s—but his timing and effectiveness were off the charts. Breaking Down the Numbers<ul><li>Strikes Landed: Strickland outstruck Chimaev by about 40 total strikes (rough numbers: 133 to 95). </li><li>Power Shots: Chimaev landed some nice kicks and a few hard shots, but nothing close to taking Strickland out of the fight. </li><li>Damage: Chimaev had ground control for part of the fight, but he never damaged Strickland, just held position.</li></ul><blockquote>“He controlled the ground for a couple of rounds for sure, but he did no damage. He didn’t really almost finish Strickland. Strickland, he had Strickland's back the majority of the first round and Strickland did a good job…”</blockquote>Did Chimaev Get Robbed? No way. The numbers and the damage tell the story. Strickland landed more, defended well, and was never really in danger of getting finished.<blockquote>“And the reason why I say there's no way Strickland Chimaev got robbed is because Strickland outstruck him by like 40 strikes…”</blockquote>Chimaev’s Bright Spots:<ul><li>Good kicks </li><li>Strong opening round</li></ul>Strickland’s Keys to Victory:<ul><li>Jab, jab, jab </li><li>Keeping it simple and effective (no wild tricks) </li><li>Staying composed under early pressure</li></ul><h3>Coach’s Corner: Why The Jab STILL Wins Fights</h3>Here’s a quick side note for all my martial arts students and fans reading—Strickland’s game plan is a perfect example of why simple can beat fancy. What Strickland Did:<ul><li>Lots of out and in movement (faking distance, then coming in with a jab) </li><li>Kept his combos short but crisp </li><li>Walked into dangerous territory (circling towards Chimaev’s right) and still made it work</li></ul><blockquote>“He’ll fake out, he’ll go in. And he was, he was doing that with a jab where he fakes out and then he goes in and it was over and over. He probably landed 30 jabs like that.”</blockquote><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Lesson:You don’t need every technique in the book. If you can land your go-to shots, do it well, and do it over and over, that’s enough to win even at the highest levels.<h3>Why This Wasn’t a Robbery: The Breakdown</h3>Let’s dig a little deeper, since a lot of fans on Twitter and Reddit are saying Chimaev was robbed. The Case For Strickland<ul><li>Significant strikes: Clear edge for Strickland </li><li>Ground control: Chimaev had it, but no damage—no near finishes </li><li>Composure: Strickland never looked in deep trouble </li><li>Answered every change Chimaev threw at him</li></ul>The Case For Chimaev<ul><li>Flashier kicks </li><li>Some flashy takedowns and back takes </li><li>Controlled moments on the ground—but again, can’t win on control alone</li></ul>End of the day, the right guy got the nod.<h3>Wrap Up &amp; What’s Next for the Top Fighters</h3>Alright, so what’s next after UFC 328? A couple of big questions are floating around. Who Does Strickland Fight Next?<ul><li>He’s proven he can hang with just about anyone. </li><li>Potential next fights:</li></ul>Adesanya rematch? Dricus Du Plessis? Cannonier?<ul><li>The division is stacked, and Strickland’s got all the momentum.</li></ul>What’s Next for Chimaev?<ul><li>He’s still a beast. Took his first “real” UFC loss, but he’s right at the top of the heap. </li><li>Will need to work on cardio and composure for later rounds. </li><li>Don’t be surprised to see him bounce back even meaner.</li></ul>Dark Horses<ul><li>Van could be a big force at flyweight if he keeps this up. </li><li>Brady has set a new benchmark for American MMA grapplers.</li></ul><h3>How To Study These Fights (For Fighters and Fans)</h3>I always recommend that students, coaches, and hardcore fans watch the details. What should you look for on rewatch?<ol><li>How Strickland sets up the jab (it’s all in the timing and distance) </li><li>Brady’s body positioning on top – watch how he controls wrists, hips, and posts </li><li>How Van uses the earthquake escape from mount—simple but effective </li><li>Strategy: Volkov’s patience vs Acosta’s trouble closing distance</li></ol>And if you want some visual breakdowns…<h3>Useful Tips if You’re New to Martial Arts</h3>You watched the fights and now you want to train? Awesome. Finding a good gym and instructor makes all the difference. My Top Tips<ul><li>Get my book: <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Choosing-Martial-School-Instructor/dp/B0CCCHZJT4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=15WJZQG40M92A&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.JIgxX0Z7s4oyeZVerF_PaB9dtCLsJYPpNiyhIkHVk0egOGEdBj2ALdQtFVAPxLNaQGHpduihvrgjyb-ODRBOndpA9A5fKXAxeDY8wTQpqZUtApB1i_UkwcLcDVRKYjLDHksMZRUzqmPGYn0y52B-5DsRr_qf8Hm08x9HiG530cZZKx3C53Pt83_D41wy8D-tYE14pv5fvI1Q_mZ08iccPHg494OptdTH5Y1_XYIp-ZM._lE8K6cNh1MasfsSNPFIXQdRzBwU-uGjowV5XcrJUwo&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=ultimate+guide+martial+arts+school&amp;qid=1739226837&amp;sprefix=ultimate+guide+martial+arts+school+%2Caps%2C140&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Choosing-Martial-School-Instructor/dp/B0CCCHZJT4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=15WJZQG40M92A&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.JIgxX0Z7s4oyeZVerF_PaB9dtCLsJYPpNiyhIkHVk0egOGEdBj2ALdQtFVAPxLNaQGHpduihvrgjyb-ODRBOndpA9A5fKXAxeDY8wTQpqZUtApB1i_UkwcLcDVRKYjLDHksMZRUzqmPGYn0y52B-5DsRr_qf8Hm08x9HiG530cZZKx3C53Pt83_D41wy8D-tYE14pv5fvI1Q_mZ08iccPHg494OptdTH5Y1_XYIp-ZM._lE8K6cNh1MasfsSNPFIXQdRzBwU-uGjowV5XcrJUwo&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=ultimate+guide+martial+arts+school&amp;qid=1739226837&amp;sprefix=ultimate+guide+martial+arts+school+%2Caps%2C140&amp;sr=8-1">The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Your Martial Arts School Instructor</a>&nbsp; </li><li>Try multiple gyms—feel the vibe before committing </li><li>Watch a class before joining, see if the culture fits </li><li>Don’t stress being a beginner, everyone starts somewhere</li></ul><figure id="figure-cbhgmlbrsmp1zrhyn" class="selected"><iframe id="cbhgmlbrsmp1zrhyn" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mAkA5N5gy7g" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/mAkA5N5gy7g?si=DWJ3tNLX3wYjsU7i" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mAkA5N5gy7g" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure><blockquote>“You don’t need a million weapons, guys. You just need to be effective at these weapons. And he’s so effective at them. So amazing performance from him for sure.”</blockquote>

UFC 328 STRICKLAND BACK ON TOP!

Bruce Lee action figure with black background

<h3>The Fighter’s Guide to Drilling: Why Knowing Is Never Enough</h3>Welcome to an in-depth look at one of the realest truths in martial arts and fighting—drilling. If you’re a fighter coming up, or even just passionate about training, this blog post is straight for you. We’re gonna break down why drilling is so important, why “knowing” a move isn’t even close to mastering it, and how top-level fighters separate themselves from the pack. I’m going to keep it casual, just like we’re chatting at your local gym after practice, but bring you every detail you need to take your training to another level.<h3>Introduction: Core Drilling Truths</h3>Let's kick things off. If you ever hang around young fighters—or even those with serious talent—you see this mistake all the time: they think because they already know how a move works, they don’t need to drill it any more. Happens with grappling especially.<blockquote>“They think because they already know the technique, they don’t have to drill it. And this really applies more to grappling than striking.”</blockquote>But here’s the hard reality: just because you’ve learned it in class, maybe even hit the move on someone, doesn’t mean you’re actually good at it. And it damn sure doesn’t mean you can pull it off under the bright lights, against someone with real defense.<h3>Why “Knowing” Isn’t Mastery</h3>There’s a difference between “knowing” a technique and owning it. You might have seen a move a thousand times, done it on a partner who’s tired, or in a situation where they’re basically letting you work. That means nothing when the level goes up.<ul><li>You can only “own” a move if you can hit it against someone who doesn’t want you to. </li><li>If your armbar works only on newbies, then it’s not ready. </li><li>If your double-leg is fire with beginner partners but gets stuffed by anyone who wrestled in high school, you’ve got work to do.</li></ul>This blog isn’t about repeating stuff for the sake of repeating. It’s about breaking past the comfort zone and doing the kind of drilling that makes your moves automatic—so you can perform them when stakes are high.<h3>Striking vs Grappling: The Reps Divide</h3>Here’s something most people overlook: drilling for striking is different from drilling in grappling. Striking: More Reps, Faster ProgressWhen you throw jabs for rounds on the bag or shadow box, you’re drilling. Every punch is another rep. That’s why progress in striking can sometimes happen way faster.<ul><li>You get hundreds (even thousands) of reps in every session. </li><li>The mechanics are simple to repeat without a partner.</li></ul>Grappling: Fewer Reps, More ChallengesGrappling? Totally different. You might hit a double-leg a handful of times in an hour, and the setup is complex. Each rep is work, and you can’t just throw it out there as easily as jabbing a bag. But that's exactly why you must be deliberate with your grappling drills:<ul><li>Pick moves. Own them. Drill until you can hit them against resistance. </li><li>Don’t just “learn” twenty moves—master a handful by drilling them until they're second nature.</li></ul><h3>The Mayweather Example and Picking Your Moves</h3>Look at Floyd Mayweather. He's been in the boxing game for forty years, but the guy still throws his jab and cross every single practice. He knows there’s no shortcut to mastery—reps matter.<blockquote>“Floyd Mayweather's been boxing for 40 years. He still throws a jab, still those across every practice.”</blockquote>For grappling, you don’t need to memorize every submission from a YouTube playlist. Instead, pick your go-tos and make them sharp:<ul><li>Maybe 15 solid Jiu-Jitsu moves </li><li>50 wrestling and cage work moves (depending on your style) </li><li>Drill these moves religiously.</li></ul>Why Picking Matters<ul><li>You need reliable moves—not just flashy stuff. </li><li>Drilling your “A-game” makes you dangerous no matter who you face.</li></ul><h3>Getting Real About Progress: Reps and Catch-Up</h3>How do you catch up to someone who’s been doing this way longer than you? Simple: you have to do more reps than them, but in less time.<blockquote>“This is how you get good to say you catch up to people that have been training way longer. You just do more reps than them in a shorter time period.”</blockquote>If you know the moves but aren’t drilling, you’re stuck. Everyone knows the basics, but few can hit them on skilled partners. At the highest levels, only the best-drilled moves are going to land. Real-World Examples<ul><li>Armbar: Easily demonstrated, tough to finish on a resisting black belt. </li><li>Double-leg: Easy to drill, but can you finish against a college wrestler? </li><li>Triangle: Looks clean, but who’s it effective against?</li></ul>You don’t just drill until you can hit these moves on your training partners. Drill until you can consistently catch people who are far more skilled than you.<h3>Drilling for High-Level Execution</h3>Let’s get practical. The measuring stick isn’t your buddy or the hobbyist with a year’s training. The real metric: can you land this move against someone who has their defense dialed in—someone who’s been doing it for years, or who spent their life in competition?<blockquote>“Can you hit this triangle on a black belt? Can you hit this takedown on a college wrestler or a juco wrestler or even a high school wrestler?”</blockquote> It’s not about one-off successes. Can you repeatedly finish high-level people? Drilling gets you there. Every rep is a step toward making these moves automatic.How Do You Know When You’re Ready?<ul><li>You hit your move on multiple skilled opponents. </li><li>You can finish the move even when you’re tired, under pressure, or against a stubborn defense.</li></ul>The Reality CheckIf you roll with a black belt, even as a purple or brown belt, you might catch them once in a while. But consistent success is rare because experienced fighters know how to shut moves down. That’s why drilling matters.<blockquote>“The high level person doesn't have to be some world class fighter. They just have to be maybe a 40 year old black belt that's been doing it for 10 or 12 years.”</blockquote>The goal is to drill until your moves work reliably against these kinds of partners. Once your technique is sharp enough to catch them, it’ll work like magic against amateurs or anyone in your weight class.<h3>Practical Advice for Martial Artists</h3>Alright, so how do you apply all this? Whether you’re new in martial arts or searching for a gym, here’s what matters most: Step-by-Step Advice<ol><li>Find a Gym That Values Drilling: Not all gyms do. Look for clear technical instruction and dedicated drill time. </li><li>Pick Your Key Techniques: Don’t get caught up in every shiny move. Pick a core set of go-tos. </li><li>Track Your Progress: Keep a training log. Note the number of reps, success against different partners, and areas to improve. </li><li>Repeated Drilling: Drill moves until they’re boring. Boredom is a sign you’re almost owning it. </li><li>Focus on Execution Against Resistance: Success against tired, cooperative partners doesn’t count. Keep raising your standards.</li></ol><h3>Drilling Strategies: Lists, Tips, and Workouts</h3>Let’s make things concrete. Here’s some actionable stuff to help you drill smarter. How to Drill Moves for Grappling1. Pick a Move<ul><li>Example: Kimura from guard. </li></ul>2. Drill With a Cooperative Partner<ul><li>10 reps on each side. Focus on perfect mechanics.</li></ul>3. Drill With Light Resistance<ul><li>Partner increases defense. You adapt and find ways through. </li><li>10 reps.</li></ul>4. Drill With Full Resistance<ul><li>Can you finish against someone trying not to let you? </li><li>Repeat until your success rate goes up.</li></ul>5. Add to Sparring<ul><li>Look for kimura openings during live rounds. Don’t force—just see what’s there.</li></ul>Tips for Effective Drilling<ul><li>Don’t rush reps—quality matters as much as quantity. </li><li>Film your drilling sessions—watch them back. </li><li>Ask your coach for feedback—never stop refining.</li></ul>Example Drilling WorkoutMonday Grappling Drill Session:- Armbar from guard: 5 x 10 reps each side- Triangle choke: 5 x 10 reps each side- Double-leg takedown: 5 x 10 reps (standup partner)- Kimura from side: 5 x 10 reps each sideSparring: Aim for one of the drilled moves per round.<h3>Bruce Lee’s Philosophy and Repetition</h3>Let’s revisit one of the most quoted pieces of wisdom in martial arts:<blockquote>“I don’t fear the man who knows 10,000 kicks, but the man who practices one kick 10,000 times.”</blockquote>This isn’t just a cool saying. It’s the blueprint for mastery. If you want to level up, drill until the move is part of your DNA.<ul><li>Forget spreading yourself too thin. </li><li>Focus on reps—reps are everything.</li></ul><h3>Mistakes to Avoid: “I Already Know How”</h3>The biggest mistake fighters make is brushing off drilling with “I already know how.” I can’t count how many times I’ve heard it. You show someone a technique and they act like they’ve got it covered. But being able to show the move isn’t the same as hitting it in a fight.<blockquote>“Can you hit it on any that's experienced or good? That's why you should repeat the same over and over.”</blockquote>Quick Checklist: Are You Making This Mistake?<ul><li>Do you avoid drilling basic moves? </li><li>Do you get bored easily and stop after a few reps? </li><li>Do you think knowing a move is enough? </li><li>Have you tried hitting a move on a high-level opponent… and failed?</li></ul>If any of these ring true, rethink your approach. Drilling isn’t just for beginners, it’s the secret sauce for every champion.<h3>Visualizing Drilling: Examples, Drills, and Images</h3>Let’s get some visuals in here because seeing is believing. Here are classic examples of fighters drilling, broken down with images. Example: Drilling the Jab<ul><li>A fighter works the jab on the heavy bag, round after round. </li><li>Focuses on hand placement, speed, timing.</li></ul>Example: Grappling - Armbars<ul><li>Practicing armbars with a partner. </li><li>Starts with slow, technical reps. </li><li>Moves up to situational sparring focused on armbar entries.</li></ul>Example: Double-leg Takedown<ul><li>Shooting double-legs against a partner. </li><li>Tracking how many successful finishes as resistance increases.</li></ul><h3>Final Thoughts and Resources</h3>If you’re new to martial arts, or if you’re looking to choose a martial arts school or instructor, check out <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/0eA7miwg" href="https://a.co/d/0eA7miwg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School Instructor</a>. If you want more topics covered, just drop a comment.<figure id="figure-jyvwjh6xcpmo9flm80"><iframe id="jyvwjh6xcpmo9flm80" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e_31gXIC82Y" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/e_31gXIC82Y?si=g9w9BMDreYfmntKg" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e_31gXIC82Y" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

DOMINATE YOUR TECHNIQUE WITH DRILLING

What’s up, fight fans! UFC 327 went down last night and, man, what a card. From emotional retirements to crazy upsets and some wild finishes, this card had pretty much everything fight fans could want. I'm going to break down the main moments, share my thoughts on the performances, and highlight a few technical insights you’ll want to replay. So grab your gloves (or popcorn), and let’s get into it!<h3>Farewell to a Legend: Cub Swanson’s Last Ride</h3>"Retirement fight for Cub Swanson, and he looked as good as he ever looked. It was amazing. What a dream. Way to close your career out."Let’s start with the feels. Cub Swanson, after an incredible run (15 years in the UFC), hung up the gloves in a fight against Landwehr, and he absolutely brought the house down. Here’s what stood out:<ul><li>Vicious hand combos: Cub let loose with some of the fastest, sharpest hand combinations we’ve seen from him. He wasn’t just fighting; he was putting on a clinic. </li><li>Classic boxing: In and out movement, slick head movement, nasty feints—Cub really showed that old school style is still relevant, and he looked as sharp as ever. </li><li>The send-off: After the fight, the UFC gave him a little ceremony. The crowd got hyped, and you could tell the moment meant a lot. 15 years, folks. Respect.</li></ul><blockquote>“Just great boxing in and out, head movement, feints. Looked as good as ever and got an amazing little ceremony at the end.”</blockquote>Why This Retirement Mattered Cub Swanson has been a fixture in the UFC, and seeing someone walk away on a high note—looking every bit the part of a prime contender—just feels right. For the new fans, check out his highlight reels. For the old school, you know what this meant. What’s Next? There’s talk about a role at the UFC or as a coach. Wherever Cub goes, the sport is better for having him.Key Highlights from Swanson vs Landwehr<ul><li>First round was fireworks with both guys landing. </li><li>Swanson’s experience shone as he out-boxed and out-moved Landwehr. </li><li>Emotional tribute capped off with UFC staff, family in the Octagon.</li></ul><h3> A Cautious Showdown: Dominick Reyes vs Johnny Walker</h3>This fight wasn’t a barnburner, but it told a story.After the Swanson showdown, we got a match-up on paper that promised big knockouts, but sometimes strategy wins the day.<ul><li>Both guys were careful—maybe a little too careful. Neither wanted to risk getting caught. </li><li>Close decision: The judges gave it to Dominick Reyes, but honestly, some folks had it for Johnny Walker. Personally, I thought Walker just edged it, but it wasn’t robbery territory. </li><li>Why so cautious? Both these dudes have been on the wrong end of knockouts before, and it showed in how they fought.</li></ul><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Technical Takeaways: <ul><li>Jab was the weapon of the night—both fighters used range, but neither committed to a blitz. </li><li>No major risks: You could see both men respecting the other’s power.</li></ul><blockquote>"Neither guy really took chances, but Dominick Reyes got the win... understandable but not necessarily a fan favorite."</blockquote>Decision Details<ul><li>Reyes used movement and defense to avoid Walker’s big shots. </li><li>Walker had a few solid moments, but most rounds were too close to call. </li><li>Not a fight for the highlight reels, but a win is a win.</li></ul><h3><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Breakout Performance: Blaydes vs Hokit</h3>Now this was a wild one. Let’s talk about Josh Hokit—a dude who stepped into the Octagon and gave off big “Fedor” energy. Who is Josh Hokut?<ul><li>Super athletic: Wrestling background, spent time in the NFL—Hokit is an absolute monster physically. </li><li>Aggressive style: No loading up, just swings wild and accurate, with crazy speed. Some folks swing wild and get caught. Not Josh. </li><li>Fedor vibes: For those who remember Fedor Emelianenko, Hokit’s ability to throw looping shots without overcommitting is spooky similar.</li></ul>Curtis Blaydes Stays Game<ul><li>Blaydes wasn’t just a stepping stone. He landed some quality jabs, mixed in straight punches, and stayed competitive. </li><li>For Hokit, this was his first true UFC test, and he passed with flying colors.</li></ul><blockquote>"He comes in swinging wild. It looks wild, but he's very controlled with it. Very accurate, very fast... even when he loop shots, he's not pulling from his face."</blockquote>Athleticism on Display<ul><li>Quick transitions from defense to offense—switches from defending takedowns to launching hands in a blur. </li><li>No “loading up”: These are fast, direct shots, making them hard to read.</li></ul> Aftermath: Big Callout from Dana WhiteAnd then… Dana White reveals that Derek Lewis will fight Josh Hokit next. If you’re a fan of big knockouts and wild scraps, that’s a must-watch. The build-up (including Trump asking Dana why Lewis wasn’t on the card) was almost as wild as the fight.<h3>Costa’s Comeback: Textbook Open Stance Victory </h3>Let’s get technical for a minute. The co-main event put Paulo Costa against a Russian opponent whose name is a little challenging for most announcers, but the fight was crystal clear—a battle of tactics and timing. Costa Fights the Smart Fight<ul><li>Open stance battle: Costa (orthodox) vs Russian (southpaw) meant this one was all about footwork and angles. </li><li>Inside jab knockdown: Costa stepped inside with his lead foot and caught his man clean with a jab that dropped him. Not a lucky shot—textbook technique. </li><li>Rear leg round kicks: Used the open stance to repeatedly land rear leg kicks. </li><li>Swapping lead foot position: Stepped outside to land the rear hand, inside to land the lead jab. </li><li>Knockdown and finish: The combination of these tactics built pressure until Costa got the finish.</li></ul><blockquote>“Basic open stance fighting, but just textbook and did a really good job of it and got hit in the process.”</blockquote>This is the kind of fight you show beginners when they’re figuring out open stance strategies. What’s Next for Costa? Coming in as a 2-to-1 underdog and pulling off the win? That's the feel-good story of the night.Technical Breakdown: Open Stance Tactics<ul><li>Jab vs Southpaw: Step inside with the jab, reset before the counter. </li><li>Kick when open: Costa used the rear leg because the target was wide open. </li><li>Finishing sequence: Dropped his rival with inside foot jab, mixed in kicks, and finished with classic one-two.</li></ul>Want a deep dive? I might drop a video soon breaking down these exact exchanges.<h3>Wild Main Event: Prochazka vs Ulberg</h3>And then… the main event. Chaos, drama, and a new champion crowned! Jiri Prochazka came in as the fan favorite, but it would be Carlos Ulberg standing with the belt at the end of the night.The Fight Itself<ul><li>Fast-paced start: Both traded hard kicks early, with Ulberg targeting the lead leg. </li><li>Injury drama: Ulberg appeared to twist or buckle his knee awkwardly, possibly from a leg kick or just a weird step. But he pushed through. </li><li>Prohazka goes wild: True-to-form, Jiri swung for the fences, hunting for the finish. He got a little wild—and got caught.</li></ul><blockquote> "Jiri comes in swinging wild and got caught with the check left hook, then finished from there."</blockquote>The Finish<ul><li>Ulberg slipped a shot and landed a perfect check left hook. Dropped Jiri, followed up, and the ref called it. </li><li>Gutsy win under duress—Ulberg fought injured and still took out a pure finisher.</li></ul>Lessons from the Main Event<ul><li>Sometimes, controlled chaos beats pure aggression. </li><li>Leg kicks and injury management can change a fight’s entire narrative. </li><li>Ulberg is your new 205lbs champ—huge for him and his team.</li></ul><h3>Standout Moments and Technical Breakdowns</h3>Let’s hit a quick list of the night’s most technical and emotional moments: Most Technical Exchange<ul><li>Costa’s inside-step, straight jab knockdown: textbook for fighting a southpaw. </li><li>Hokit’s looping hooks from the shoulder, not the hip.</li></ul>Most EmotionalSwanson’s retirement ceremony—fifteen years, glorious send-off.Wildest MomentUlberg battling through a freak knee injury to finish Prochazka.<h3>Wrap Up and What’s Next</h3>Man, UFC 327 delivered all the way. There were wild swings, smart tactics, and emotional farewells—exactly why we love fight night.<ul><li>Cub Swanson goes out on top with a classic performance. </li><li>Reyes vs Walker: A tactical war, if a bit slow for some fans. </li><li>Blaydes vs Hokit: Hokut is for real—watch out, heavyweights! </li><li>Costa back in the win column: Tactics and heart. </li><li>Ulberg shocks the world: New champ, new storylines.</li></ul><blockquote>"Great card top to bottom and mostly all good fights."</blockquote><h3>What’s Next?</h3>I’m already stoked for the upcoming matchups—especially Hokit vs Lewis. That’s going to be mayhem. If there’s a subject or technical breakdown you want, drop a comment! I’m always happy to dive into the details.<h3>Find Your Gym – Rec and Resources</h3>If you’re fired up from watching UFC 327 and want to start training yourself, I recommend checking out <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/0goOKRDg" href="https://a.co/d/0goOKRDg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor</a>.<ul><li>How to pick the right gym for you </li><li>What makes a great instructor </li><li>Tips for beginners</li></ul><figure id="figure-x0577a256omnxszdjj"><iframe id="x0577a256omnxszdjj" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V6NxJuuaDwg" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/V6NxJuuaDwg?si=mRK2mDB8b7TGyzH5" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V6NxJuuaDwg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

UFC 327 Recap

<h3>How to Stay Composed in a Real Fight: Handling Nerves, Adrenaline, and Pressure</h3>If you’ve ever thought about stepping into the ring for your first real fight or even just started sparring in the gym, you’ve probably asked yourself: “How do I stay calm? How do I handle my nerves? Why does it feel so much harder than just hitting the bag or drilling combos?” You’re not alone—these are questions almost every fighter faces, from day one amateurs to those trying to make it pro. In this post, I’m breaking down how to stay composed in a fight, based on my own early fight experiences, how I learned to handle my nerves and adrenaline dumps, and the best ways to pick up real fight experience—without getting wrecked along the way. I’ll share stories from my own journey, why amateur competition is so crucial, and throw in practical advice for training your mind and body to handle the chaos of a real fight. Let’s jump in.<h3>The Pressure of a Real Fight – Why Nerves Happen</h3>Let’s be real: fighting is stressful. Whether you’re stepping into the cage, putting on gloves for a smoker, or just about to spar hard for the very first time, the nerves are real.<blockquote>“You’re never going to get over it initially. You’re going to have adrenaline dump. So be prepared for that mentally…”</blockquote>Most of us feel anxious for a real fight for a few reasons:<ul><li>It’s unpredictable—anything can happen. </li><li>There’s an audience, sometimes a big one. </li><li>Punches and kicks land for real (not like drills). </li><li>You want to win and not get embarrassed.</li></ul>Even if you’ve drilled combos a thousand times and rolled with every beast in your gym, fighting in front of a crowd just hits different. For a lot of fighters, adrenaline dumps, shakes, and even gassing out in the first round are normal. The good news is: You can deal with nerves and learn to stay calm. <h3>Why Amateur and Sparring Experience Matter</h3>Here’s the first big key: your experience level in sparring and amateur competition makes a huge difference. If you’re just training on bags and doing casual drills, the nerves will always feel bigger. If you’ve done a bunch of smokers, some amateur boxing or jiu-jitsu tournaments—even just hard sparring rounds—you’ll be way more prepared for the adrenaline wave. From the transcript:<blockquote>“…depending on how much amateur experience you have… if you’re a how much sparring experience you have, these are the two major ones for me…”</blockquote>What does this mean? The more real competitive experience you can stack up, the better you’ll be at handling fight pressure. Your skills grow, but so does your ability to stay chill when things get wild.<h3>My Story: Small Town Dreams to Golden Gloves</h3>Let’s talk about my own journey to staying composed in the ring. Back in 2005, when I first got obsessed with MMA (thanks, Ultimate Fighter), there wasn’t even an MMA gym near me. I was just a high school kid in a small town with a big dream. But I found a boxing gym, and that’s where everything started. I was lucky to have some natural attributes: I’m tall for my weight class, had good cardio, and honestly, I could handle my nerves better than most folks around me. Here’s what helped me:<ol><li>I boxed for the first few years—not just trained, but FOUGHT, a lot. </li><li>I racked up 22 amateur boxing fights in about a year and a half. </li><li>Even after shoulder surgery and a bunch of injuries, I kept chasing experience. </li><li>When I switched to MMA, I moved to a city, did some kickboxing, and then ran up a bunch of amateur MMA fights—ended amateur MMA at 4-1.</li></ol>My first boxing fight? I got so gassed I thought I was going to die. My conditioning saved me. And if you’re wondering, being a beginner is supposed to feel like this! Learning #1: Early competitive experience, even outside MMA, is golden for handling nerves.<h3>Getting Used to Combat and Dealing with Nerves</h3>After my first gassing in boxing, I realized something: nerves get better with experience. The more I fought, the better I felt. Later, when I hit the MMA scene, I fought guys who should have beaten me on paper—they were purple and brown belts in jiu-jitsu. The thing was:<ul><li>They had never been punched in the face for real. </li><li>They got nervous, froze up, and dumped all their adrenaline in the first minute. </li><li>They had no gas tank once the fight actually started.</li></ul>Because I had already fought 22 boxing matches, I’d already felt the fear, gassed out, and experienced the adrenaline dump before. These guys were feeling it for the first time in front of a big crowd. Learning #2: You can’t simulate a real fight with drills—you need real competition experience, even if it’s just controlled smokers or tournaments.<h3>What Happens in Your First Fight: Adrenaline Dumps</h3>Most people underestimate the adrenaline dump.What’s an adrenaline dump? It’s the crazy full-body rush when you walk out for your fight, hear the crowd, and the ref yells, “Fight!” It feels like this:<ul><li>Heart pounding out of your chest </li><li>Sweaty, shaky hands </li><li>Breathing heavy, even before you throw a punch </li><li>Legs feeling like concrete some rounds, like jelly in others</li></ul>In my first Golden Gloves match (2007), the rounds were supposed to be a minute and a half, but because so many people registered, they were only ONE minute each. It was crazy. Three one-minute rounds: go, go, go. I gassed out so bad, but my conditioning pulled me through and I got the win. That rush is something you never forget. So… How Do You Beat the Adrenaline?You honestly don’t beat it right away. Everyone gets it. The secret is, you can train yourself to handle it better with time.<blockquote>“You’re never going to get over an adrenaline dump just getting more tired… You need to spar very hard, get your heart rate high in the gym…”</blockquote><h3>How Real Sparring Builds Real Toughness</h3>One of the best things you can do is hard sparring.There’s a time for light rounds, but nothing trains your mind—and your body—to deal with real fight brutality like tough, honest rounds. Why?<ul><li>You get your heart rate up, closer to fight speed. </li><li>You learn how to take hard shots and not panic. </li><li>You learn to stay relaxed under pressure.</li></ul>Some gyms are so focused on safety that their fighters never get pushed. When they finally do get hit for real, it’s a total shock. <blockquote>“Another thing I had was a lot of hard sparring from boxing and that helped me be able to deal with the brutality of a fight versus lightly sparring in MMA or kickboxing. That’s why I believe in hard sparring some as well.”</blockquote>Pro Tip:Spar hard sometimes, but always use proper safety gear and trusted partners. It’s not about killing each other—think of it as “hard, technical sparring.”<h3>How to Train for Fight Day – Hard Bag Work, Sprints, Sparring</h3>What else helps besides hard sparring? Here’s the simple answer: Anything that gets your heart rate way up and keeps it up under pressure.<ul><li>Hard bag work: Go all out for 3-5 minutes, just like a fight round. Don’t just flow; go hard. Try to break a sweat fast and keep it up. </li><li>Sprints: Short, intense burst workouts. Box jumps, running sprints, shuttle runs. </li><li>Heavy padwork: Mitt rounds where your coach calls for long, unbroken combos, counters, and defense all at once. </li><li>Hard sparring: At least once or twice a week with safety gear.</li></ul><blockquote>“Very hard bag work, sprints, and sparring… Sparring is the best way to get your heart rate high and simulate a fight.”</blockquote>If you need a quick routine:3 x 3-minute rounds hard bag, 1 minute rest10 x 50 meter sprints, 1 minute rest3 x 5-minute hard sparring rounds, with full gearRepeat weekly. Track how your heart rate and recovery improve.<h3>Why You Should Compete: Tournaments, Smokers, and Experience</h3>Want to fight as a pro someday? Then you need competition experience. Not just gym training—real crowds, real nerves. Here’s what I recommend (from my own path):<ol><li>Jiu-Jitsu tournaments: Enter as many as you can. Even if MMA is your goal, competition helps. </li><li>Boxing/kickboxing matches: Take any opportunity to fight safely—smokers, local events, gym vs. gym challenges. </li><li>Smokers: These are beginner-friendly, semi-organized sparring events. Multiple gyms meet up, fighters walk out to music, matches happen in front of a crowd. You’re wearing huge gloves and gear for safety.</li></ol><blockquote>“If you’re an amateur fighter and your goal is to be a pro MMA fighter one day, I would say fight 10 smokers, go fight amateur boxing, plus go do grappling tournaments, or all the above. You need competition experience to get over competition adrenaline dumps and competition nerves. Is that simple.”</blockquote>Why does it help?<ul><li>You get used to walkouts, crowds, and the energy of fight night. </li><li>You learn how you react under real stress. </li><li>You build a stack of experience for your future pro career.</li></ul><h3>Stepping Up: Moving from Amateur to Pro (The Right Way)</h3>There’s a right way and a wrong way to go pro. Too many guys jump straight in after just a few gym rounds. Don’t be that person. Here’s a blueprint to build your fight experience safely and smart: 1. First 1-2 Years<ul><li>Do a LOT of smokers, novice tournaments, and sparring. </li><li>Hit boxing tournaments, kickboxing, and jiu-jitsu comps. </li><li>Gather 10+ smoker fights or tournament matches.</li></ul>2. Year 2-4 – The Middle Years<ul><li>Move into sanctioned amateur fights (MMA, kickboxing). These count “for real.” </li><li>Build a solid record (5+ fights is a good goal). </li><li>Keep entering tournaments between fights.</li></ul><blockquote>“…you had teammates cheering you on, you had their teammates cheering them on in an audience, they're supporting both of you so that those 10 fights, those 10 smokers simulate a real fight. So that's 15 fights before you even turn pro.”</blockquote>3. Before Turning ProMake sure you have 15-30 amateur fights (across all disciplines). Only go pro once you’re used to the nerves, adrenaline, and fight speed. If you’re not getting knocked out or seriously hurt, push the experience bank hard.Example from My Journey:<ul><li>22 amateur boxing fights (with full gear: “big glove, headgear”) </li><li>5 amateur MMA fights (was 4–1) </li><li>2 amateur kickboxing fights </li><li>All within 3 years</li></ul>By the time I turned pro, I had felt all kinds of nerves, faced all sorts of fighters, but was READY.<h3>Final Thoughts: The Experience Blueprint </h3>Feeling nervous before a fight? That’s not just normal—it’s a sign you care. But you don’t have to let nerves wreck your performance.<blockquote>“You may always have them, but you're going to be able to deal with them better than a lot of people who don't have that experience. Just my advice guys…”</blockquote>Let’s wrap up everything you need to know: The Blueprint for Staying Composed in a Fight<ol><li>Get as much real fight/sparring/competition experience as you can. </li><li>Regularly do hard sparring with trusted partners. </li><li>Enter smokers, tournaments, competitions in ALL disciplines (boxing, kickboxing, grappling). </li><li>Train your heart rate—bag work, sprints, pad rounds—so your body doesn’t freak out on fight night. </li><li>Stack experiences under nerves and crowds before moving up the ranks.</li></ol>Bonus: Everyone Handles Nerves DifferentlySome people are naturally calmer. Some feel like puking before every walkout, no matter how long they fight. That’s okay—experience helps you deal with your nerves, not everyone else’s.<h3>Next Steps: Find a Gym, Start Training, Get My Book</h3>If you’re new to martial arts and hunting for the right gym, do your homework, talk to the coaches, and focus on places where you can get safe, real sparring and long-term support. Want more? Check out my book: <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/0j2iJFcg" href="https://a.co/d/0j2iJFcg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School &amp; Instructor</a>. It’s packed with everything you need to know to find the right team, avoid the wrong one, and shortcut your journey to competition-ready. <h3>Key Takeaways</h3><ul><li>Nerves are normal. Everyone gets adrenaline dumps. </li><li>Experience is everything. The more real rounds you do, the calmer you’ll get. </li><li>Train hard, spar hard… and fight often. Compete as much as you can at the amateur level. </li><li>Stack up experience BEFORE you go pro. Don’t rush. </li><li>If in doubt, get a coach, join a good gym, and ask for advice.</li></ul>Good luck on your journey—and remember, fighting is 90% preparation and experience, and only 10% natural talent.<figure id="figure-g9glmds9efmnp5fq9m"><iframe id="g9glmds9efmnp5fq9m" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8LxFx6meBGI" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen data-url="https://youtu.be/8LxFx6meBGI?si=o31plaS6zZkLtxaS" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

How to Stay Composed in a Real Fight: Handling Nerves, Adrenaline, and Pressure

<h3>UFC 326 Recap: Standout Fights, Knockouts, and What’s Next</h3>What’s up, fight fans! UFC 326 just went down last night, and man, there was a lot to talk about. From big knockouts to solid ground games, this card had it all. I want to break down the event for you guys, sharing what I saw, the moments that stuck out, and a few tips and takeaways for fighters and fans alike. Whether you missed the fights or want to relive the best moments, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive right in!<h3>UFC 326: A Night to Remember</h3>UFC 326 packed in all the best parts of MMA: crafty veterans, up-and-coming young bloods, vicious knockouts, and some impressive technical displays. If you’re like me and eat, sleep, and breathe this sport, these are the nights you live for. Let’s break it down, fight by fight, with a look at the gameplans, momentum swings, and highlight moments.<h3>Cody Garbrandt's Fight: Kicks, Comebacks, and a Bit of Controversy </h3>First up on the card that caught everyone's attention was Cody Garbrandt against Long Xiao.&nbsp;Early Rounds and Action: Cody had some solid moments, used his wrestling, landed sneaky elbows, and got the crowd on their feet with a couple of takedowns. But make no mistake, his opponent was not backing down.One of the biggest problems Cody faced? That lead leg. Long Xiao showed a ton of old-school martial arts knowledge, especially with his lead leg—mixing up roundhouse kicks to the inside leg, body, and even head. A couple sidekicks sneaked through, too. You could really tell he brought that traditional martial arts background into the cage and wasn’t afraid to showcase it. The results were obvious halfway through—Cody was hurting from those powerful leg attacks. And not just that, Garbrandt got rocked in the first round with a flush head kick that had fans worried for a second. Fouls and the Low Blow Issue: Here’s where the fight got a little controversial. Long Xiao repeatedly landed low blows. Let’s be real: you can’t just keep hitting below the belt and expect the ref to let it slide. After three, the ref had no choice but to step in and take a point away.<blockquote>“You can't repeatedly low blow somebody and expect the points to not be taken. They're going to take points away if you do it three times like he did.”</blockquote>Props to the ref for keeping things fair, and congrats to Cody for toughing it out and getting back in the win column. He needed that one, and the fans were definitely pumped for his victory.<h3>Gregory Rodrigues Knockout: Power Display</h3>Next up was one of the most electric moments of the night: Gregory Rodrigues' knockout. If you want to see a dude with real power, you gotta give this fight a watch. How It Happened: Gregory set up the KO with a short, sharp right hand. It came straight from the cheek, no wind-up, direct, and pinpoint accurate. It was old-school technique but with serious snap—a reminder that the basics, when done right, always work. His opponent made a rookie mistake: switching stance while in range. As soon as the switch happened, Gregory pounced and landed clean. Takeaway for Fighters: Switching stances is a cool tool to add to your kit, but if you’re in range where your opponent can hit you, you leave yourself wide open. The best way to switch is to do it at a distance or while moving out—not in the pocket. <blockquote>“When you switch stances with someone, you cannot do it within range. He was within range to be hit. He basically switched and got hit immediately.”</blockquote>Gregory’s KO win was a reminder to never lose focus, even for a split second.<h3>Drew Dober vs. Michael Johnson: Classic Banger </h3>This fight had hype written all over it—and it delivered! Both Drew Dober and Michael Johnson are seasoned UFC vets. I was fighting in the UFC when these guys were making waves, so I knew it was going to be fireworks. Fight Breakdown: Michael Johnson was as quick and smooth as always. He was light on his feet, bouncing in and out, changing angles like a pro. If you like slick boxing in MMA, you’d enjoy how Johnson was moving. But Dober was patient. He waited for his moment, set the traps, and let his hands go at the perfect time.The Finish: Drew landed a textbook 3–2 combo (right-left), and really put his weight behind that left. It landed flush and shut the lights out. It was clean, sharp, and an excellent example of how sticking to fundamentals can get the job done.<blockquote>“Drew Dober was patient and just set him up and hit him with a 3, 2 basic combo and leaned in, really committed to the left hand big time, and landed it, and big knockout for him.”</blockquote>I’ve got nothing but respect for both guys for still being in the UFC, doing their thing, and entertaining the fans.<h3>Raul Rosas Jr. vs. Rob Font: Old School vs. New School</h3>Now, this was the classic “old vs. new” matchup. Raul Rosas Jr. is the young gun on the rise, and he looked every bit the part. Rob Font, the seasoned veteran, wanted to show he’s still got what it takes. How the Fight Played Out Rosas Jr.’s Gameplan: He went heavy on the takedowns—and was really successful. His timing, setups, and follow-through on the mat were all on point. Rob Font’s Approach: Font kept playing guard from the bottom. For the non-grapplers out there: playing guard means you’re on your back looking for submissions. Font was clearly going for submissions from bottom position, but sometimes that’s a risky move against someone as sharp as Rosas.<blockquote>“It's very hard to submit people from the bottom at a high level. It does happen, but it's hard, guys, to submit someone who has a really good top game and is very aware of submissions.”</blockquote>Key TakeawayThe bottom line: you need a dynamic guard to catch someone at a high level, and Rosas just wasn’t giving any openings. He’s looking better every fight, and if he keeps developing, he’s got a bright future ahead. Props to Rosas for showing the new generation is here, and for Font for always going for it.<h3>Caio Borralho—The Fighting Nerds Show Out </h3>What I Saw: Caio Borralho looked fantastic. He was extremely well-rounded, and to be honest, he brought something different to the octagon. Standout Skills<ul><li>Diverse Striking: Hands down by his hips, firing shots from unexpected angles. </li><li>Leg Kicks: Chopped the opponent down with some of the most effective leg kicks of the night. </li><li>Transition Skills: When the fight hit the mats, he dominated top position and shut down all submission attempts.</li></ul>Fighting with your hands down can be a bit dangerous, but sometimes, if you’re athletic enough and time it well, you can get away with it and catch guys off guard.<blockquote>“He was using his attributes at very athletic, shooting punches from his hip. It can be dangerous fighting with your hands down like that, but it also brings the punches from different angles that people aren't used to.”</blockquote>On the Ground Once it hit the floor, all the slick submissions were getting shut down. Positional dominance, ground control, and a clear decision win. Big ups for the Fighting Nerds team. <h3>Main Event: Holloway vs. Oliveira</h3>Here we go—the main event that everyone was waiting for: Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira. This one had a lot of eyes on it, and both fighters were bringing serious skills and a huge fan base into the octagon. Ground Control and Sub Defense: Holloway TestedA lot of folks expected a striking battle, but this fight turned into more of a ground game chess match. Oliveira really leaned into his BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) edge, especially in the second and third rounds.<blockquote>“It was more of a ground control game versus anything. Props to Holloway for defending the submissions.”</blockquote>The Big Story: For two straight rounds, Holloway was in major trouble, stuck in defending rear-naked choke attempts. Oliveira had the back, working for the finish, but Holloway showed a ton of heart and composure. Managing to survive that long against someone like Oliveira? That’s impressive. Holloway didn’t give in, kept his chin down, hand-fought, and waited for his chance to escape every time. But…Take Down and Ground TroubleHonestly, I was surprised Holloway got held down and controlled so easily on the mat. For most of his career, Max has been tricky to pin down—a tough guy to outwrestle or submit. But the blueprint showed up: Oliveira’s wrestling and top control, mixed with submission attacks, forced Holloway to defend for most of the fight.<blockquote>“I was surprised Holloway got held down and taken down and dominated that easily on the ground. But also, I'm going to be honest with you, I've been surprised. That hasn't happened before because Holloway is not a big guy for the weight class.”</blockquote>Holloway usually gets by on height, slickness, and attitude, but size-wise, he’s not a giant for the division. Oliveira found ways to make that count—smothering, applying pressure, and picking his moments to strike or pass guard. Oliveira’s Smart TacticsOliveira played it smart—why stand toe-to-toe with one of the best MMA boxers in the game when you’ve got the biggest BJJ advantage in the division? He used the feet to set up the clinches and takedowns, and once it hit the floor, the fight was all about his world-class submission game.<blockquote>“Wasn't a lot of exchanges on the feet and did a good job of landing his shots on the feet and then going back to the grappling immediately. Smart on his part, very smart on his part.”</blockquote><h3>Final Thoughts &amp; What’s Next</h3>Wrapping up UFC 326, we got to see a true mix of styles and skills. We saw victories earned with smart tactics, patience, and persistence, plus some highlight-reel knockouts. Here’s what stood out from the night:<ul><li>Never underestimate the basics. Sometimes short, straight punches are all you need. </li><li>Mixing it up matters. Whether striking or grappling, changing levels, and switching things up confuses opponents—just make sure you don’t do it in range! </li><li>Defending submissions at the top level is an art. Holloway’s heart kept him in it for way longer than most could handle against Oliveira. </li><li>Size and gameplans count. Sometimes, fighting “smart” is the best strategy. Knowing when to stand, when to grapple, and how to blend your skills is what makes champions.</li></ul> If you’re new to martial arts and looking for a gym in your area, or just trying to learn how to pick a good academy, check out my book: <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/02gKtPqt" href="https://a.co/d/02gKtPqt">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Martial Arts School and Instructor</a>. Link’s in the description—don’t miss out!<figure id="figure-h9u6504ke4ummja5lyu"><iframe id="h9u6504ke4ummja5lyu" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/svatCrI9DHc" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen data-url="https://youtu.be/svatCrI9DHc?si=3jvyzkcEn_WvK_OW" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

UFC 326: Holloway v Oliveira 2

<h3>The Real Secret to Success in Fighting and Life: Being Competitive</h3>What's up, everyone? If you’re reading this, you’re probably searching for the real keys to success—whether it’s as a fighter or just winning at life in general. Today, I’m dropping what I believe to be the main ingredient for hitting that high level, based on working with some of the toughest and most driven people around. But heads up: this isn’t just about fighting. I’ve found the same secret in business, sports, and pretty much any career you can name.<h3>The Success Secret Most People Miss</h3>So, what’s the secret? What’s the main thing I’ve seen in all the most successful people, and especially in fighters who really “make it”?<blockquote>“There’s multiple answers that could lead up to you being successful or not in fighting or in life. But the main determining factor that I’ve seen out of the super successful people... is being competitive.”</blockquote>People like to toss around a lot of buzzwords—discipline, talent, athleticism—but after training and rolling with so many top athletes, one characteristic just keeps showing up: they’re super competitive. In every gym, in every locker room, whether it’s MMA, jiu-jitsu, business meetings, or even among pro football players I’ve known personally, the difference isn’t who’s the most gifted. It’s who wants to win the most.<h3>Why Being Competitive Matters</h3>Here’s the thing: The toughest fighters aren’t always the strongest. The hardest workers aren’t always the most skilled. But they’re ALL competitive. Let's lay it out simple:<ul><li>Competitiveness = Not Lazy. I’ve never met anyone truly competitive who was lazy. </li><li>Hard Work Flows from Competition. They’re always thinking, “Someone is training harder than me right now,” and that’s what gets them to the gym early and keeps them there late. </li><li>It’s all about that drive. If you’re competitive, you’ll do whatever it takes to close the gap, even if you started late or have to work twice as hard.</li></ul><blockquote> "I don't know one super extremely competitive person that's lazy. The people that are extremely competitive are not lazy."</blockquote><h3>The Two-Edged Sword of Competitiveness</h3>Don’t get me wrong—being ultra-competitive isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. It can cut both ways. On the downside:<ul><li>Competitiveness can make you a tough teammate. </li><li>You might get argumentative or become a pain in the gym if you’re not careful.</li></ul>But if you ask me, it’s still a good problem to have. It’s better to have to dial back your competitive fire than to try to spark it where there’s none.Real Life Example: Parenting and CompetitivenessThe other day, my kid’s mother’s mom came to me. She was talking about my son, James Jr. She said, “He loses at something and he cries and throws a fit.” Was I worried? Not really. Sure, you have to teach your kid not to be a sore loser and manage those emotions—but I told her, in the long run, that’s a great trait to have if you point it in the right direction. That willingness to hate losing is what sets the winners apart.<h3>Competitiveness in Business and Beyond</h3>It’s not just fighting—this goes for business, too. Everyone thinks rich, successful people must have had it handed to them. But from what I’ve seen, it’s almost always that they’re willing to grind harder than the next guy. Whether it’s with million-dollar contracts or building security machines for airports, the top performers are just more competitive. Let me give you a few quick stories:<ul><li>One of my best friends is a former NFL player, now owns several businesses, and builds those TSA security machines you walk through at the airport. </li><li>He’s got government contracts and trains a couple times a week, bringing that same competitive energy from football to business.</li></ul>No matter what the field, every truly rich or successful person I know is competitive.<blockquote>“Honestly, every rich person I know is competitive. The toughest fighters I know are the most competitive.”</blockquote><h3>When Skills Meet Competition</h3>But listen, I’m not going to sit here and act like being competitive is enough on its own. That’s not fair. Skills still matter.<ul><li>You might lose to a less competitive guy if their skills are way ahead of yours. </li><li>For example, if you’ve been training jiu-jitsu for three years and you’re a blue belt, and you end up fighting a college wrestler, guess what? You might lose just because he can crank out takedowns all day.</li></ul>So, the formula for real success is:Competitiveness + Skills + Hard Work = High Level SuccessBut if I had to pick just one edge, I’d always pick competitive drive. It’s what keeps you grinding, and that’s how your skills catch up over time.<h3>Real Life Stories from the Gym</h3>Getting Real: The Start of My JourneyMost people don’t know this—I didn’t even start training until I was 20 years old. I didn’t start grappling until I was 22! There were guys in the gym who literally started as kids. Does that mean I just gave up? Not a chance.<blockquote>"When I would go to practice, I would get mad if other people were getting more reps than me. ... I'm looking around, and I would see people drilling jiu-jitsu techniques and getting way more reps than me. I got to go faster, I got to do more."</blockquote>It wasn’t just about showing up. I took it personally. If someone was getting more reps in, I was pissed off. That fired me up to drill harder and longer—while still focusing on good technique.Outworking the Competition Here’s what that looked like:<ul><li>I was ALWAYS the first guy in, last guy out. </li><li>I drilled way more than anyone else because I was behind—the only way to close the gap was to outwork everyone. </li><li>In five years, I probably did more reps in jiu-jitsu than most people do in fifteen.</li></ul>That’s how I managed to go from total newbie to winning three submission fights in the UFC, despite my late start.<h3>Where Competitiveness Gets You</h3>So, why does all this matter? Because competitiveness is the “secret weapon.” It’s what pushes you to be first in, last out, to do those extra reps, and to keep hustling even when you’re behind or discouraged. Examples from my own experience:<ul><li>I started late but made up ground because I out-worked, out-drilled, and stayed hungry to win. </li><li>All the hardest-working, best fighters I’ve ever known—without exception—were the most competitive people in the room.</li></ul><h3>How to Channel Your Competitive Side Without Becoming “That Guy”</h3>Okay, so you’re probably wondering: “How do I use my competitive edge without becoming a jerk in the gym or a sore loser in life?” Here are a few tips that’ll keep your competitive drive positive: 1. Compete Against Yourself First Focus on beating your own best, every single day. Track your reps, your rounds, your growth. 2. Respect OthersRemember, being competitive isn’t about disrespecting teammates. Help each other grow. Compete hard, but keep it friendly. 3. Use Your Losses If losing fires you up, use that fuel. But learn to handle losses—they’re a huge part of leveling up. 4. See the Big Picture One win or loss doesn’t define your journey. It’s about the long haul—outlasting and outworking over years. 5. Channel It Into Hard Work Bring that competitive juice into your work ethic. Show up early, drill more, and constantly push your limits.<h3>Leveling Up: How My Competitive Side Carried Me </h3>To really get a sense of how much competitiveness drives success, let's break down what it did for my career:<ul><li>I started way behind. Most fighters started as kids—at ten, twelve, or even younger. I didn’t get my start until I was 20. </li><li>I was obsessed with not being "the last guy." Every gym I walked in, I was watching who was putting in the most reps, who was drilling the longest, and I had to outdo them. </li><li>Super-competitive nature made up for lost time. Instead of using my late start as an excuse, it became my motivator. I pushed through 5 years of non-stop drills, more than most put in a decade and a half! </li><li>Results showed up in the cage. Three submission wins in the UFC—proof that non-stop reps and competitive drive actually change results.</li></ul><blockquote>“I did more reps in jiu-jitsu in a five-year period than I think most people probably do in fifteen years.”</blockquote><h3>Skills vs. Competition: The Truth</h3>Now, let’s get real—skills still matter. No matter how competitive you are, if you’re facing somebody with massively higher skills (like a lifelong wrestler when you’re just starting out in jiu-jitsu), you’ll probably lose. Competitiveness alone doesn’t make you invincible. But here’s what does happen: Competitiveness drives you to keep working until you close that gap. So the right balance is:<ul><li>Develop your skills every single session </li><li>Bring a competitive mindset to every rep, round, and drill </li><li>Never stop trying to get better—even when you’re losing</li></ul><h3>Competitiveness in Business and Other Sports</h3>It’s not just about fists and grappling. Take the same drive, and you’ll see it producing results in every professional setting.<ul><li>The guys closing big contracts? Competitive. </li><li>The best salespeople? Competitive. </li><li>The most successful entrepreneurs I know? All hyper-competitive. </li><li>Even the folks designing airport security machines for the government have that competitive mindset.</li></ul>It’s a universal trait. The people winning in multiple spheres of life—sports, business, whatever—all share that same fire.<h3>Quick List: Signs of a Highly Competitive Person </h3>Want to know if you’re on the right track? Here are a few signs:<ul><li>You get frustrated when you lose, but use it as fuel </li><li>You notice who’s outworking you—and it bothers you </li><li>You’d rather put in more reps than anyone else </li><li>You constantly chase improvement </li><li>You compare yourself to the best and want to beat them</li></ul>If these sound like you, you’re already building a winner’s mindset.<h3>Don’t Let Your Competitive Edge Hurt You</h3>Remember, while competitiveness is powerful, it has to be managed.<ul><li>Don’t be a sore loser </li><li>Channel frustration into growth, not negativity </li><li>Celebrate others’ success—then aim to beat them next round</li></ul>It’s all about balance. Use your fire to build yourself—and help others around you get better too.<h3>Bringing It All Together: The Secret That Makes the Difference </h3>If there’s only one thing you take from this guide, let it be this:<blockquote>"The most competitive people I've ever met were the toughest fighters, the hardest workers, and the highest performers in any field."</blockquote>No matter when you start or what obstacles you hit, if you bring a competitive drive and are willing to outwork everyone in your path, you’ll give yourself the best shot at success—in the gym, in the cage, in the office, anywhere.<h3>Quick Recap Checklist</h3><ul><li>🥋 Competitiveness is a secret weapon—more important than just talent or luck. </li><li>🥇 Skills do matter—but competitiveness keeps you getting better. </li><li>🚀 Channel competitiveness the right way—so you elevate yourself and the team. </li><li>🏆 Hardest workers = most competitive personalities—in fighting, business, and life.</li></ul><h3>Conclusion and Takeaways</h3>At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter whether you’re trying to be the best fighter, win at business, or just be great at whatever you do—the same secret applies:<ul><li>Outwork your competition. </li><li>Be the hungriest person in the room. </li><li>Take losses as fuel to get better. </li><li>Lift up those around you—but always keep pushing to be the best.</li></ul>Success isn’t just about some magic formula or hidden talent. It’s about who wants it more, who gets back up after a loss, and who’s willing to train when everyone else has gone home. So the next time someone asks you, “What’s the secret to success?”—now you know.<h3>Want to Start Your Own Competitive Journey?</h3>If you’re new to martial arts and looking for the right gym or instructor, check out my book: <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/0eZBTQ7k" href="https://a.co/d/0eZBTQ7k" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Martial Arts School or Instructor</a>And if you have other topics or questions you want me to cover, drop a comment below! I’m here to help.<figure id="figure-sjkngmojacmm5geblx"><iframe id="sjkngmojacmm5geblx" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OHCcJeO1MPI" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen data-url="https://youtu.be/OHCcJeO1MPI?si=5dUoBmWIwsKdwwji" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

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