JRE #1619 – Claressa Shields

by

16-Mar-21






Joe Rogan Experience #1619 – Claressa Shields Podcast Topics

This podcast features Claressa Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and undisputed boxing champion, as she discusses her transition to mixed martial arts (MMA), her incredible journey in boxing, and her unique perspective on the world of professional sports. She dives into topics like the challenges of breaking down gender barriers in boxing, the importance of finding the right coaches and training methods, the emotional toll of being a champion, and the unique dynamics of the MMA world. Prepare for a discussion filled with insights into the world of combat sports, the importance of dedication, and the complexities of navigating success in a competitive environment.

Here are some of the key topics explored in the podcast:

Claressa Shields’ Journey to MMA

  • Her Decision to Transition to MMA: Claressa Shields, having already achieved unprecedented success in boxing, decided to venture into MMA for the challenge and the opportunity to prove herself in a new arena. She was motivated by a desire to see how far she could push herself as an athlete and to conquer a new sport with the same dedication and focus she brought to boxing.
  • Training at Jackson Wink MMA: Shields chose Jackson Wink MMA, one of the most renowned gyms in the world, for its exceptional training environment and the opportunity to learn from legendary coaches like Greg Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn. She was particularly drawn to the gym’s reputation for producing champions, and she felt it was the ideal place to develop her MMA skills.
  • Her Training Regimen: Shields describes a rigorous training regimen that includes striking, grappling, and ground fighting, with a focus on mastering the essential techniques of MMA. She acknowledges the challenges of learning new skills at a high level but emphasizes her commitment to hard work and dedication.
  • Her Mindset and Approach: Shields approaches her transition to MMA with the same mental toughness and competitive spirit she displayed in boxing. She is determined to prove herself, to push her limits, and to become a champion in both sports.

The Challenges of Women’s Boxing

  • Lack of Promotion and Recognition: Shields expresses frustration with the lack of promotion and recognition for women’s boxing compared to men’s boxing. She feels that women’s boxing often gets overshadowed, despite the talent and dedication of the athletes. She points out that women’s boxing has not had the same opportunities for exposure as men’s boxing, making it harder for female fighters to gain a wider audience.
  • Unequal Pay and Opportunities: Shields advocates for equal pay and opportunities for women in boxing, arguing that women deserve to be paid fairly for their work and to be given the same platforms as men. She believes that boxing promoters and networks have not done enough to invest in women’s boxing, which is why the sport has not reached its full potential.
  • The Pressure to Be “Ladylike”: Shields challenges the notion that women in boxing need to be “ladylike” and that they should tone down their confidence and competitive spirit. She sees her own outspoken nature and confidence as essential to her success, and she encourages other women in boxing to embrace their authentic selves.
  • The Importance of Speaking Up: Shields believes in the power of speaking out about inequalities and injustices in the world of boxing. She encourages other female fighters to use their platforms to advocate for change and to push for more recognition and support for women’s boxing.

The Psychology of Champions

  • Dealing with Doubters: Shields acknowledges that, as a successful athlete, she often faces doubters and critics. She discusses the importance of staying focused on her own goals and of not letting negativity impact her performance. She shares how she has learned to ignore the noise and to focus on her own path.
  • Finding the Right Coaches: Shields highlights the importance of finding coaches who understand her as an athlete and who can help her reach her full potential. She emphasizes the importance of having coaches who are not only skilled but who also believe in her and support her goals.
  • The Emotional Toll of Success: Shields opens up about the emotional challenges of being a champion. She discusses the pressure to live up to expectations, the loneliness of being at the top, and the importance of maintaining a strong support system. She also emphasizes the importance of managing her emotions and of staying grounded.
  • The Importance of Recovery: Shields recognizes the importance of recovery for both physical and mental well-being. She emphasizes the need for rest, relaxation, and strategies for managing stress. Her dedication to recovery helps her avoid burnout and injury.

Floyd Mayweather and the Business of Boxing

  • Floyd Mayweather’s Business Savvy: Shields admires Floyd Mayweather’s business acumen and his ability to navigate the world of boxing with a strategic and calculated approach. She discusses his ability to create hype, to negotiate lucrative deals, and to maximize his earnings.
  • The Importance of Scheduling Matchups: Shields believes that Mayweather’s success is largely due to his shrewdness in scheduling matchups, often choosing to fight opponents who are past their prime or who are not as formidable. She argues that Mayweather’s strategy has allowed him to minimize risk and maximize his chances of winning.
  • The Role of Promotion in Boxing: Shields emphasizes the importance of promotion in boxing, recognizing that Mayweather’s ability to generate hype has played a significant role in his success. She believes that women’s boxing could benefit from a more aggressive promotion strategy.
  • The Need for an Entourage: Shields acknowledges that, as her career progresses, she needs to build an entourage of professionals who can help manage her affairs, support her training, and handle the business aspects of her career. She recognizes that having a team of trusted individuals can make a big difference in her success.

Other Notable Topics

  • The Unique Dynamics of MMA: Shields discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of MMA, highlighting the importance of learning multiple disciplines, including striking, grappling, and ground fighting. She recognizes the need to master a diverse skillset to be successful in this sport.
  • The Potential for Women’s MMA: Shields believes that women’s MMA has the potential to become a major force in the sport. She sees her own entry into the sport as a significant moment for women’s MMA, and she is eager to contribute to its growth and success.
  • The Role of the PFL: Shields discusses the PFL, a mixed martial arts promotion, and its commitment to promoting women’s MMA. She is excited about the organization’s structure and its focus on providing equal opportunities and financial rewards to female fighters.
  • Her Perspective on Other Athletes: Shields expresses respect for other athletes, including Amanda Nunes, Kayla Harrison, Holly Holm, and Cyborg. She acknowledges their strengths and recognizes their contributions to the world of combat sports.

5 Memorable Quotes

  • “I really wanna see if I’m as great as I think I am. And I think I am.” – Claressa Shields confidently expresses her unwavering belief in her own abilities.
  • “5 piece preparation prevents poor performance.” – Shields emphasizes the importance of thorough training and preparation for success in any endeavor.
  • “You gotta learn them like you learn your children.” – Shields highlights the need for personalized coaching approaches, emphasizing the importance of understanding each athlete’s unique needs and strengths.
  • “I really focus on recovery. And I take supplements, but I can’t say I take them all the time.” – Shields emphasizes her dedication to both hard work and smart recovery practices to maintain optimal physical and mental performance.
  • “If I can’t do it, it can’t be done.” – Shields, referencing Fifty Cent’s famous lyrics, emphasizes her unwavering determination and her belief in her own potential to achieve greatness.