Other veterans of the octagon have recognized this strange contradiction. It seems that when it comes to practicing our craft, the further one goes the less one knows. As a person becomes proficient in the science of mma, they realize there are an almost infinite variety of techniques to be used by you or against you.
Tiger Woods famously changed his swing after he was already recognized as a legend. Top baseball sluggers have struggled to change their batting style, searching for an even higher level of performance. Striving keeps these athletes energized; complacency is the set-up for your competition getting the better of you.
The process of making myself worthy for my next UFC appearance begins 6-8 weeks before the fight. Everyday I spend hours with my advisors to hone old skills, while incorporating new ones into an orchestrated whole. This requires me to see each fight through a new lens and, in a sense, build myself up from the bottom once again. I become totally involved in my preparation – physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
Separated from family and friends keeps me vibrant and directed, as I train in Seattle with Matt Hume and other dedicated practitioners. They help keep me bold yet humble - that vital balance that enables me to continue as a warrior. Everyone I work with knows as I do that any neglect or indifference can get you badly beaten.
Entering the UFC arena, I may appear serene, but I’m trying hard to maintain my blinkered focus. After the cage door slams, there’s that familiar churning in my stomach. Next I feel my opponent’s gloved fists hunting for my head, his kicks lashing at my legs. The ruthless ballet of mma is underway. Now is the time to bring to bear my entire being - years of fundamentals mixed with new skills.
Those strange contradictions - knowledge and ignorance, confidence and humility, old skills and new skills - coming together into a forceful vortex. Anything less leaves the cage door ajar for defeat to enter.
