24-Feb-21
This podcast offers a captivating glimpse into the world of MMA, specifically focusing on the unique perspectives of Kevin Holland, a rising star in the UFC middleweight division, and his head coach, Travis Lutter, a retired UFC veteran. The conversation dives deep into training methods, fight strategies, and the intricacies of the sport’s evolution, highlighting intriguing themes like the importance of individual talent versus dedicated training, the impact of social media hype in MMA, and the ongoing debate about the UFC’s dominance in the industry.
1. Kevin Holland’s Unique Fighting Style:
Holland’s unconventional approach, blending Kung Fu and Jiu-Jitsu, sets him apart in the UFC.
His ability to submit opponents from his back, showcasing remarkable flexibility and strength, is a testament to his unorthodox training.
Despite his natural talent, Holland struggles with the mental and physical demands of training, preferring fun and enjoyable workouts to grueling routines.
His fun-loving personality is evident in his fights, where he’s often seen engaging in trash-talking and playful antics in the octagon.
2. The Significance of Coaching in MMA:
Travis Lutter emphasizes the importance of staying active and actively training, even after retirement, to maintain a sharp understanding of the sport.
He believes that teaching enhances a fighter’s knowledge and understanding of specific positions and techniques.
Lutter highlights the unique challenges of coaching fighters with diverse personalities and skill sets, needing to tailor their approaches for optimal growth.
He credits his coaching for Kevin Holland’s success, recognizing his potential and pushing him to strive for excellence.
3. The UFC’s Dominance and Bellator’s Rise:
The UFC’s talent pool is acknowledged as being higher than Bellator’s, but Lutter recognizes that Bellator is closing the gap, boasting world-class fighters like Douglas Lima, Patricio Pitbull, and Vadim Nemkov.
The UFC’s superior business model, strong branding, and vast financial resources contribute to its dominance.
However, Lutter believes that the talent level in Bellator could reach UFC parity if the organization can consistently attract top-tier fighters.
The comparison between the UFC and Bellator mirrors the Coca-Cola and Pepsi rivalry, with Bellator striving to catch up to the UFC’s established position.
4. The Role of Striking in MMA:
Holland’s Kung Fu background is discussed, emphasizing the effectiveness of certain Kung Fu techniques, like the oblique kick, in the Octagon.
The evolution of striking in MMA is explored, recognizing how the oblique kick, initially dismissed, has become a powerful weapon, particularly for fighters like Lorenz Larkin.
The conversation touches on the need for specialized striking coaches in MMA, with Holland’s lack of a dedicated striking coach prompting a discussion about the various approaches to striking training.
Holland’s Kung Fu training, combined with sparring and mitt work with other fighters, shapes his striking arsenal, making him a force to be reckoned with.
5. The Importance of Hard Work and Dedication:
Lutter draws parallels between the training regimen of a top-tier MMA fighter and the rigorous standards of Juilliard, a renowned performing arts institution.
He highlights GSP’s exceptional work ethic and dedication to training, pushing himself beyond the limits of most fighters.
However, Lutter ultimately credits Kevin Holland’s extraordinary talent as a major factor in his success, acknowledging that Holland possesses a natural athleticism that surpasses even GSP’s.
Holland’s dedication to training, while not always fueled by strict discipline, is nonetheless crucial for his progression in the sport.
6. The Impact of Social Media Hype in MMA:
The conversation delves into the influence of social media on MMA, discussing how fighters like Joaquin Buckley have gained viral fame for spectacular knockouts.
Lutter recognizes that social media hype, while valuable for attracting fans, can sometimes overshadow a fighter’s overall skillset and accomplishments.
He emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of MMA, recognizing that a single viral moment doesn’t necessarily define a fighter’s true potential.
The discussion highlights how the hardcore MMA community often holds a deeper appreciation for a fighter’s complete skillset compared to the more fleeting attention garnered through social media.
7. The Controversial Figure of Israel Adesanya:
Adesanya’s unique striking style and his rivalry with Kevin Holland are discussed, highlighting the tension between the two fighters.
Adesanya’s extensive kickboxing experience and his ability to read and manipulate opponents’ movements are recognized.
The conversation explores the potential for a future clash between Adesanya and Holland, recognizing that both fighters possess the talent and desire to push each other to their limits.
Adesanya’s dominance at 185 pounds and his potential move to 205 pounds generate intrigue about his future in the sport.
8. The State of the UFC Middleweight Division:
The middleweight division is discussed, recognizing its depth and the presence of top-tier fighters like Adesanya, Paulo Costa, Robert Whittaker, and Derek Brunson.
Holland’s goal of fighting top contenders like Whittaker and Costa, fueled by a desire for challenging and exciting matchups, is evident.
The discussion highlights the unique challenges of navigating a division with so many talented fighters, making it difficult for fighters to secure top-ranked fights.
The constant competition and the quest for a title shot add a layer of pressure for fighters like Holland, demanding unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of improvement.
9. The Intricacies of Weight Cutting in MMA:
Holland’s decision to fight at 185 pounds, avoiding the extreme weight cuts required at 170 pounds, is discussed.
Lutter believes that Holland’s size and strength are maximized at 185 pounds, giving him a significant advantage.
The conversation touches on the controversial aspects of weight cutting in MMA, with Holland’s experiences with weight-cutting struggles prompting a discussion about the physical and mental demands of the process.
Holland’s preference for fighting at 185 pounds emphasizes the importance of finding the weight class where a fighter feels strongest and most confident.
10. The Evolving World of Jiu-Jitsu:
The various rule sets in Jiu-Jitsu are discussed, comparing the IBJJF, EBI, and the unique setup for the Ultimate Submission Showdown.
Lutter expresses a preference for IBJJF rules, while recognizing the limitations of tournament formats for showcasing the full scope of Jiu-Jitsu.
The emergence of submission-only matches, championed by fighters like Gordon Ryan, challenges traditional Jiu-Jitsu norms, promoting a more strategic and endurance-based approach to the sport.
The conversation touches on the ongoing debate within the Jiu-Jitsu community about the best rule sets, highlighting the diversity of opinions and the constantly evolving nature of the sport.
11. The Importance of Recovery in MMA:
Holland’s reliance on swimming as a recovery tool and his aversion to traditional methods like sauna and ice baths are discussed.
The importance of recovery is emphasized, particularly for fighters like Holland who train intensely and push their bodies to the limit.
Lutter acknowledges the role of marijuana in Holland’s recovery process, recognizing its effectiveness in helping Holland relax and manage stress.
Holland’s unconventional approach to recovery highlights the diversity of strategies employed by fighters, underscoring the importance of finding what works best for individual athletes.
12. The Impact of COVID-19 on MMA:
The challenges of training and competing during the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed, with Lutter expressing his frustration with the restrictions imposed on gyms and sporting events.
He questions the rationale behind certain COVID-19 protocols, particularly those affecting outdoor dining and training facilities.
The conversation touches on the economic and psychological consequences of the pandemic for MMA fighters, highlighting the potential for athletes to lose a significant portion of their careers due to lockdowns and restrictions.
The discussion delves into the broader societal implications of COVID-19 policies, questioning the scientific basis for certain decisions and the impact on individual freedoms.
13. The Legacy of Muhammad Ali:
The podcast revisits the impact of Muhammad Ali on boxing and society, recognizing his unique talent, charisma, and unwavering convictions.
Lutter discusses Ali’s controversial stance against the Vietnam War, highlighting the admiration he received despite the potential consequences.
Ali’s resilience and ability to return to the top after a three-year absence, despite a significant decline in athleticism, are discussed.
The discussion acknowledges Ali’s impact on the sport, highlighting his role as a cultural icon and his influence on generations of fighters.
14. The Debate About “Greatness” in MMA:
The podcast delves into the elusive concept of “greatness” in MMA, challenging the notion that a fighter needs to be undefeated or hold multiple championships to be considered the best.
Lutter questions the emphasis on “greatness,” arguing that fighters are constantly evolving and pushing the limits of the sport, making it difficult to define a single “greatest” fighter.
He acknowledges the unique skills and accomplishments of fighters like Demetrious Johnson, Fedor Emelianenko, and Jon Jones, but ultimately believes that “greatness” is subjective and influenced by individual perspectives.
The discussion highlights the diverse range of talents and approaches in MMA, celebrating the unique achievements of individual fighters across different eras and weight classes.
15. The Rise of Leg Locks in Jiu-Jitsu:
The evolution of the leg lock game in Jiu-Jitsu is discussed, tracing its roots back to the early 1990s and the resurgence of its popularity in recent years with fighters like Dean Lister and Gordon Ryan.
Lutter shares his own experiences with leg locks, including his early success in the sport and his subsequent shift to a more defensive approach due to the potential for injury.
He highlights the emergence of specialized leg lock specialists like Gordon Ryan, who have revolutionized the sport, emphasizing its strategic and technical complexity.
The conversation recognizes the ongoing debate within the Jiu-Jitsu community about the dominance of leg locks and their impact on the sport’s overall strategy.
16. The Importance of Resilience in MMA:
The podcast delves into the importance of resilience in MMA, discussing fighters’ abilities to bounce back from setbacks, injuries, and adversity.
Lutter highlights the remarkable resilience of fighters like Tyson Fury, who have overcome significant obstacles, including being knocked down multiple times in a fight, to ultimately emerge victorious.
He shares his own experiences with injuries, including a torn ACL and a meniscus tear, demonstrating how these challenges can be overcome with dedication and proper recovery strategies.
The conversation emphasizes the mental fortitude and physical toughness required to excel in MMA, recognizing that true greatness goes beyond natural talent and requires a relentless spirit.
17. The UFC’s Performance Institute and its Impact:
The UFC’s Performance Institute, a state-of-the-art training facility, is discussed, with Lutter offering his insights on its benefits and limitations.
The institute provides fighters with access to advanced training equipment, nutrition programs, and recovery tools, but Lutter acknowledges that it’s not a substitute for individual coaching and dedication.
Holland’s preference for more traditional training methods and his skepticism towards the institute’s meal prep program are highlighted.
The conversation explores the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of the UFC’s Performance Institute, with fighters and coaches having varying opinions about its role in the sport’s development.
18. The Controversial Figure of Khamzat Chimaev:
Chimaev’s meteoric rise in MMA, his dominance in multiple weight classes, and the potential for a clash with Kevin Holland are discussed.
Lutter acknowledges Chimaev’s exceptional talent and his ability to smash opponents, but questions his long-term potential, recognizing the impact of his recent COVID-19 struggles.
Holland’s desire to fight Chimaev, driven by a competitive spirit and a desire to test himself against the best, is emphasized.
The conversation highlights the uncertainty surrounding Chimaev’s future in the sport, with his long-term health and his ability to overcome the COVID-19 setbacks remaining open questions.
19. The Debate About “Real Fighters” in MMA:
The podcast delves into a philosophical debate about what defines a “real fighter,” questioning whether calculated risk assessment and strategic planning undermine a fighter’s authenticity.
Lutter criticizes fighters who prioritize their own safety and avoid challenging matchups, arguing that true fighters embrace risk and seek to test themselves against the best.
Holland’s willingness to step up for last-minute fights and his outspoken criticism of fighters who avoid challenging matchups are discussed, highlighting his own definition of a “real fighter.”
The conversation touches on the broader themes of courage, determination, and the willingness to push oneself to the limit in pursuit of greatness, defining the spirit of a true combat athlete.
20. The Legacy of the Gracie Family:
The podcast acknowledges the profound impact of the Gracie family on the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, highlighting their contributions to the sport’s growth and popularization.
Lutter shares his own experiences with the Gracie family, including his training with Carlos Gracie Jr. and his observations of their unique approach to Jiu-Jitsu.
He recognizes the Gracie family’s influence on the sport’s development, highlighting their role in promoting Jiu-Jitsu’s effectiveness in real-world combat scenarios and their significant contributions to the UFC’s success.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of honoring the Gracie family’s legacy while acknowledging the broader context of Jiu-Jitsu’s evolution, celebrating the diverse contributions of other prominent practitioners and schools of thought.
5 Memorable Quotes:
“Holland’s so much different. It’s it’s not fair. It’s like it’s like, you know, he’s you know, it’s like this is the most talented guy that I’ve ever trained with by far. Wow, you know.” – Lutter acknowledges Holland’s exceptional talent, comparing him favorably to even GSP, a widely recognized icon in MMA.
“He’s not there to hit yeah, and he’s he’s so experienced. He knows when to clench with you. He knows when to get you down. He knows how to wear you out.” – Lutter discusses Derek Brunson’s fighting style, emphasizing his veteran experience and his ability to outmaneuver opponents through calculated strategy and superior endurance.
“It’s a different fucking story. You know, I’d fight him. I’m sure you would. You’d find anybody. Can’t even fight Satan.” – Holland expresses his willingness to fight anyone, even Stylebender, a formidable opponent known for his striking prowess, reflecting his confidence and his desire to test himself against the best.
“Don’t forget, he’s human. Yeah, it’s it’s the whole division right now is in such an interesting place with Arasanya about the fight, Blohovitch, you know that.” – Lutter reminds listeners that even top-tier fighters are human, subject to vulnerabilities and potential weaknesses, underscoring the unpredictability of MMA.
“I want to fight all those guys that are supposedly really really good. So I can find out how good I am you know, it’s like and it’s only way to find out.” – Holland’s hunger for challenging matchups and his desire to prove himself against the best exemplify his relentless pursuit of excellence in MMA.