JRE MMA Show #57 with T.J. Dillashaw

by

31-Jan-19







JRE MMA Show #57 with T.J. Dillashaw: Unveiling the Fight Within and Beyond

This podcast dives deep into the world of T.J. Dillashaw, a two-time and current UFC Bantamweight Champion. We get a glimpse into his fight against Henry Cejudo, a controversial stoppage that left Dillashaw feeling bitter and robbed. But the episode goes beyond the immediate aftermath, exploring his arduous weight cut, training regimen, and the unique coaching philosophies of Sam Calavita and Duane Ludwig.

The podcast delves into the high-stakes world of MMA, where even the most elite athletes are driven by an unyielding desire to win. It highlights the sacrifices, dedication, and mental toughness required to reach the pinnacle of the sport. Underlying themes include the push for commercialization in MMA and its potential impact on the integrity of the sport, as well as the vital importance of proper training and recovery, showcasing the cutting-edge approaches adopted by Dillashaw.

1. The Controversial Stoppage:

  • The fight was stopped early, with Dillashaw claiming he was still in the fight and capable of continuing.
  • The referee, Mark Smith, was criticized for the stoppage, with many believing it was premature.
  • Dillashaw expresses frustration and bitterness over the outcome, feeling the stoppage overshadowed his hard work and training.
  • The UFC acknowledges the quick stoppage, but no immediate decision has been made regarding a rematch or any other actions.

2. Dillashaw’s Arduous Weight Cut:

  • Dillashaw made the decision to move down to the flyweight division, a significant weight cut from his usual bantamweight class.
  • He detailed the grueling 12-week training regimen, a “motherfucker,” he calls it, that involved strict diet, water loading, and electrolyte management.
  • Dillashaw achieved an impressive 5% body fat, which allowed him to walk out at a weight of 149 pounds, feeling like a “glycogen battery” ready to fight.
  • He emphasizes the mental and physical toll of such extreme weight cutting, but highlights the scientific expertise of his nutritionist, Sam Calavita, who helped him achieve this incredible feat.

3. Sam Calavita: A Modern-Day MMA Guru:

  • Sam Calavita is Dillashaw’s nutritionist and personal trainer, a man who Dillashaw describes as “brilliant” and “on some new level.”
  • Calavita has devised a unique and comprehensive training program that encompasses everything from Dillashaw’s diet and strength training to his sleep and heart rate variability.
  • He takes a holistic approach to training, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nutrition, recovery, and performance.
  • Calavita’s approach is a testament to the evolution of MMA training, incorporating cutting-edge scientific techniques and data analysis to optimize fighter performance.

4. The Importance of Drilling and Recovery:

  • Dillashaw emphasizes the importance of drilling and technical training, highlighting the role of his coach, Duane Ludwig, in teaching him the importance of repetition and precision.
  • He believes that excessive sparring can lead to injuries and fatigue, emphasizing the need for a balanced training approach that incorporates both sparring and drilling.
  • Dillashaw’s recovery routine is equally impressive, featuring infrared saunas, red light therapy, cryotherapy, and hyperbaric chambers, showcasing his commitment to restoring his body and maximizing his potential.
  • The podcast underlines the critical importance of recovery in MMA, highlighting the risks of overtraining and the benefits of implementing innovative recovery methods.

5. The Fight Within:

  • Dillashaw talks about the mental toughness and dedication required to be an elite athlete, stating that a certain level of “crazy” is needed to reach the top.
  • He shares his own experiences with the mental challenges of the sport, including the obsessive nature of training and the difficulty of dealing with a controversial loss.
  • Dillashaw emphasizes the importance of having the right people around him, coaches and mentors who push him to be his best and help him stay grounded.
  • This section explores the psychological side of MMA, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude, self-awareness, and support systems in achieving success.

6. The Future of MMA:

  • The podcast discusses the impact of ESPN’s involvement in MMA, creating a new level of exposure and legitimacy for the sport.
  • Dillashaw expresses concern over the potential for a rush to commercialization to compromise the integrity of the sport, particularly in terms of matchmaking and the emphasis on entertainment over skill.
  • The podcast discusses the need for greater emphasis on skill development and matchmaking based on ranking and experience, ensuring the highest level of competition is showcased.
  • This section provides a thoughtful and insightful perspective on the evolving landscape of MMA, highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with mainstream acceptance and increased visibility.

7. The Importance of Challenging Yourself:

  • Dillashaw embraces the challenges of fighting top-tier opponents, viewing them as opportunities to prove his abilities and elevate his game.
  • He discusses the significance of challenging yourself in the sport, highlighting the importance of pushing your limits and seeking out the toughest opponents to truly test your mettle.
  • The podcast explores the motivation behind the intense rivalries in MMA, showcasing how such competition can fuel growth and lead to extraordinary performances.
  • This section offers a compelling argument for the value of challenging yourself in the pursuit of excellence, highlighting the importance of pushing beyond your comfort zone to achieve greatness.

8. The Future of T.J. Dillashaw:

  • Dillashaw discusses his future goals, including the desire to reclaim the flyweight title and potentially challenge Max Holloway in a weight class above his usual.
  • He expresses a commitment to continuing his career as long as he feels healthy and has the right opportunities, demonstrating a passion for the sport that drives him to stay at the top.
  • Dillashaw also discusses his business ventures, including his Fit to Fight program, Flavor Republic Spice Company, and his involvement in a cold-pressed juice company, highlighting his entrepreneurial spirit and desire to build a sustainable future beyond fighting.
  • This section offers a glimpse into Dillashaw’s multifaceted life beyond the Octagon, showcasing his commitment to self-improvement, personal growth, and building a successful future for himself and his family.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “It’s been rough man, it’s a rough one that’s wallowed on multiple reasons. Like you say, he landed a good shot. Everything’s being overshadowed by this shot that landed behind my ear. I was over off balance, I threw a right hand, I came in a little too aggressive, that’s the way I fight. He pushed me over, I was off balance. Through a kick, I blocked it and went to throw a right hand and I tried to dip out of the way and it was one of those shots that hit you behind the head, like right behind the ear. Not illegal, but I run our feet, it’s completely illegal but it’s an unfortunate situation. One of those punches just takes your feet off from underneath you. You’re 100% there but your equilibrium’s off and he jumps on me.” – Dillashaw describes the controversial hit that led to the stoppage.
  • “I walked out at 149, glycogen battery, ready to go. I really never felt better.” – Dillashaw details his exceptional physical state prior to the fight.
  • “I think sparring is critical, I think it is important, but I think maybe as critical or maybe more is drilling.” – Dillashaw highlights the importance of technical training.
  • “You better be like Mike Tyson when he was young. Yeah, be those Michael Jordan’s, talking about, they’re always thinking about it.” – Dillashaw emphasizes the mental intensity required to be a champion.
  • “I want to be the best. And to do that, I feel like you really need to challenge your name. I’m not just talking to talk. I’m not just doing it to talk shit. I really want to do it.” – Dillashaw articulates his relentless drive to challenge himself and reach the top.