#864 - Kevin Ross & Gaston Bolanos

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Muay Thai: The Rise of Combat Sport in America with Insights from Dana White

  • Discussion on the growing popularity of Muay Thai in America despite past neglect.
  • Dana White's insights on how kickboxing has affected perceptions of Muay Thai.
  • Importance of media coverage and events to promote Muay Thai, including AXS TV.
• 00:02:20

  Buakaw's Epic Fight and Tradition vs Modernization in Muay Thai

  • Live experience of Muay Thai vs watching it on TV, emphasizing the impact of energy and brutality.
  • Buakaw's dramatic Y crew performance at a large pro Muay Thai event, highlighting cultural elements.
  • Challenges in promoting Muay Thai in America, balancing traditional aspects and modern audiences.
• 00:08:21

  The Rise and Fall of Muay Thai Promotions Exposed by Gabriel Mazzetti's Story

  • Promotion struggles stem from poor audience engagement and lack of financial sustainability.
  • Gabriel Mazzetti, a young fighter, symbolizes the growing talent in Muay Thai, recently shining in a Lion Fight event.
  • The evolution of Muay Thai in Peru is linked to coach Rodrigo's vision and government support, facilitating a surge of talent.
• 00:12:16

  Injuries and Revelations: A Fighter's Journey from Peru to the Thai Ring

  • The discussion highlights the risks of the sport, including a fighter's severe skull injury during a match.
  • The contrasting effectiveness of Muay Thai in MMA showcases its technical complexity and how it adapts to various fighting styles.
  • Personal anecdotes emphasize the resilience required in the sport, reflecting a fighter's mentality even after serious injuries.
• 00:18:43

  Karrion and His Invincible Fighting Spirit: A Journey Through Adversity in Muay Thai

  • Karrion reflects on a fighting mentality shaped by injuries and a relentless need for experience.
  • He discusses the drastic change in motivations in the sport over time, contrasting past and present fighters.
  • Karrion shares the pressures of seizing every opportunity to fight despite serious injuries, emphasizing the sacrifices made during his early career.
• 00:24:46

  From Partying to Purpose: Karrion's Transformation After Losing His Friend Muay

  • Karrion shares the impact of his friend Muay's death, which reignited his desire to pursue a fighting career.
  • He reflects on his struggles with addiction and the moment of realization that he was wasting his potential.
  • The narrative highlights Karrion's commitment to fully immerse himself in Muay Thai, transcending his fears of inadequacy.
• 00:27:31

  Kevin's All-or-Nothing Mentality Shaped by Friend's Death

  • Kevin shares how the passing of his friend at a young age motivated him to pursue his dreams with complete dedication.
  • He emphasizes the importance of giving everything to one's goals, highlighting that life is unpredictable and opportunities can be fleeting.
  • Discusses the mental and physical challenges faced by athletes, particularly in combat sports like Muay Thai.
• 00:33:18

  Gabriel's Early Success in Muay Thai: A Spotlight on Youth and Dedication

  • Kevin reflects on Gabriel, a 19-year-old fighter, who achieved a significant victory emphasizing the hard work behind his success.
  • Explores the notion that youth brings both physical advantage and fewer responsibilities, impacting performance.
  • Contrasts the experiences of younger and older fighters in their pursuit of excellence in combat sports, highlighting the growth that comes with age.
• 00:36:24

  Kevin Discusses Coaching Dynamics and Personal Growth in Martial Arts Training

  • Kevin reflects on his journey through various coaching experiences with Rodrigo, Fertex, and Johnson.
  • He emphasizes the importance of finding a coach that suits individual fighting styles and needs.
  • Kevin shares insights on how training approaches evolve over time, particularly focusing on the mental aspects of fighting.
• 00:39:29

  Knee Surgeries and Recovery: Kevin's Personal Experiences with ACL Reconstruction

  • Kevin describes his nine-month recovery journey after ACL reconstruction surgery, including the method used.
  • He compares different surgical approaches and discusses the mental challenges of using cadaver tissue.
  • The conversation highlights the significance of understanding injury impacts and the skills needed to absorb hits effectively in martial arts.
• 00:45:32

  Kevin's Insight into Muay Thai and His Transition to Bellator with Scott Coker

  • Kevin discusses the importance of technique and strategy in Muay Thai training, emphasizing specific goals in training sessions.
  • He highlights misconceptions about Muay Thai being one-dimensional and explains the complexity behind the movements.
  • Kevin announces his signing with Bellator, detailing his desire to continue in Muay Thai while exploring MMA opportunities.
• 00:52:15

  Facing Sanchai: Kevin's Unique Experience with a Muay Thai Legend

  • Kevin reflects on his fight against Sanchai in August 2012, recalling the mental focus and physical prowess needed during the match.
  • He describes Sanchai's unconventional fighting style, which blends elements from various martial arts, making him a formidable opponent.
  • Their conversation touches on the complexities of Muay Thai, specifically how Sanchai's varied kicking techniques challenge opponents' defenses.
• 00:55:41

  Understanding the Complexities of Muay Thai: Insights from Fighters

  • Discussion about the incompetence of judges in Muay Thai and their impact on fight outcomes.
  • Highlighting the importance of clinch techniques and the need for knowledgeable referees.
  • Emphasis on the misconceptions about fighting being merely brute force, rather than intricate skill.
• 01:02:31

  The Historic WBC Diamond Belt in Muay Thai: A Milestone for American Combat Sports

  • The unique occasion of the WBC sanctioning a diamond belt for a Muay Thai fight, marking a historic achievement.
  • Discussion of renowned fighters like Sanchai and the crossover potential into MMA.
  • Comparison of clinch mechanics in Muay Thai with judo and wrestling, showcasing the sport's technical depth.
• 01:13:47

  Muay Thai Scoring and Judging Challenges: Insights from Fighters

  • Discusses the importance of effective scoring in Muay Thai fights, highlighting the roles of knockdowns and takedowns.
  • Examines the complexities of judging fights, especially for judges with limited understanding of the sport.
  • Reflects on the controversial loss experienced by the fighter, which was eventually overturned after scrutiny and feedback from prominent commentators like Pat Miletic and Michael Chiavello.
• 01:56:12

  Understanding the Intensity of Combat Sports: The Fighter’s Perspective

  • Explores the enormous pressure fighters face from judges, emphasizing that their entire career can hinge on a single fight result.
  • Describes the mental and physical preparations fighters undergo, contrasting combat sports with other sports that allow for redemption in later events.
  • Advocates for greater appreciation of fight sports, particularly Muay Thai, and its potential for mainstream popularity if presented correctly.
• 01:13:47

  Stephen Bonner and Forrest Griffin: The UFC's Turning Point

  • Discussion on the pivotal UFC fight between Stephen Bonner and Forrest Griffin that catalyzed the promotion's popularity.
  • Reflection on the long history of struggle in Muay Thai and the timing variables that could lead to its breakout moment.
  • The importance of physical condition and mental resilience for fighters, especially at age 36, as emphasized by the speaker.
• 01:56:12

  Mike Tyson and the Mental Struggles of Fighters: Overcoming Adversity

  • Exploration of Mike Tyson's thoughts on confidence and fear before entering the ring.
  • The psychological challenges faced by fighters after experiencing defeats, with personal anecdotes from the speaker.
  • Emphasis on the necessity of mental toughness and learning from losses, as illustrated through examples of fighters like Cowboy Cerrone.
• 01:13:47

  Fighter Mindset: Adam's Journey Through Training and Relationships

  • Adam emphasizes the importance of mental focus during both training and fighting, contrasting casual workouts with purposeful training.
  • He shares personal experiences of how external pressures, such as family issues and relationships, can affect performance in the ring.
  • Adam highlights the role of his coach, Karen, in providing mental support and understanding during challenging times.
• 02:23:18

  Overcoming Injuries: Adam's Resilience Against All Odds

  • Adam recounts a severe intercostal tear just days before a fight, showcasing his determination to compete despite the pain.
  • He discusses the importance of mental coaching and bodywork to prepare for fights, stressing the need to push through fear.
  • The chapter reveals Adam's belief that nothing can stop him from performing, reflecting on the fine balance between training and fight-specific skill development.
• 01:13:47

  MMA Fighter's Training Regimen: Insights from a Strength and Conditioning Perspective

  • The fighter emphasizes the need for both strength training and cardio, specifically running, to maintain conditioning.
  • Discussion of training routines highlights a balance between running, sparring, and strength workouts based on personal needs.
  • The fighter references Fedor Emelianenko's training evolution, showcasing how different styles and approaches can yield success in MMA.
• 01:56:12

  The Complexity of Martial Arts Techniques: Learning and Teaching Like Freddie Roach

  • The speaker reflects on the complexity of martial arts techniques and how teaching necessitates a deeper understanding of the fundamentals.
  • Comparison to boxing coach Freddie Roach illustrates the idea that sometimes the best coaches aren't necessarily top-level fighters, but those who've studied the art more diligently.
  • The need for clarity and understanding in teaching martial arts is discussed, emphasizing the difference between instinctive ability and learned techniques.
• 01:13:47

  Rich Franklin's Muay Thai Misunderstanding: A Lesson from Anthony Brown

  • Rich Franklin, a prominent fighter, showcases inadequate Muay Thai skills during his fights.
  • Anthony Brown, a trusted training partner with expertise in Muay Thai, attempted to help but was dismissed.
  • The discussion highlights the common misconception fighters have about their striking abilities compared to true Muay Thai practitioners.
• 01:56:12

  Wonderboy Thompson vs. Tyron Woodley: The Clash of Styles and Techniques

  • Wonderboy Thompson is set to fight Tyron Woodley, highlighting a unique matchup of striking and wrestling.
  • Thompson's unconventional kickboxing style poses challenges for traditional wrestling techniques.
  • The conversation emphasizes the importance of adaptability in MMA, where fighters must integrate multiple martial arts disciplines.
• 01:13:47

  Unlikely Champion: Boxing Triumph of an MMA Fighter on Short Notice

  • The fighter reflects on an impromptu boxing match where he faced an opponent 20 pounds heavier, leading to a surprising knockout victory.
  • He discusses his preparation and transition to MMA training, including strategies for kickboxing and MMA variations.
  • The fighter expresses excitement about upcoming opportunities in both boxing and MMA while emphasizing adaptability in training.
• 01:56:12

  Nutrition Secrets Revealed: Fighter's Experience with Diet and Performance

  • The fighter shares insights on his diet management, including meal prep and working with nutritionist Mike Dolce for efficient weight cuts.
  • He explores the benefits of carbohydrate inclusion in his diet, moving away from a strict paleo approach to enhance energy levels.
  • The conversation shifts to blood work experiences and the importance of understanding personal health, illustrating a journey towards better performance and wellness.
• 01:20:24

  Kevin Ross: The Unseen Inspiration Behind Overcoming Adversity

  • Kevin Ross has served as a major source of inspiration for the speaker, especially after facing personal setbacks.
  • The speaker recalls a pivotal moment in Kevin's fight against Chana Watt, which shifted his perception of Ross as a fighter.
  • The importance of sharing struggles and failures is highlighted, contrasting it with the focus on success in the world of combat sports.
• 01:27:17

  From Limits to Breakthroughs: The Transformative Power of Inspiration in Sports

  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of biographies and stories of overcoming obstacles for personal motivation.
  • A significant comparison is made to the breaking of the four-minute mile as a metaphor for pushing past perceived limitations.
  • The speaker acknowledges their role in inspiring others within the Muay Thai community, advocating for visibility of both struggles and victories.
• 01:28:54

  Gaston Bolanos and Kevin Ross: The Journey of Inspiration in Combat Sports

  • Gaston Bolanos emphasizes his role in supporting the MMA community alongside notable fighters like Joe Schilling, Tiffany, and Kai.
  • Bolanos reflects on the importance of perseverance and being an inspiration for younger fighters entering the sport.
  • Kevin Ross is highlighted as a significant training partner who has contributed to Bolanos' growth in his fighting career.
• 01:30:45

  Connecting with Combat Sports Academy and Future Collaborations

  • The dialogue includes plans for future collaborations, including a fight companion episode featuring discussions about upcoming fights.
  • Gaston Bolanos and his social media presence are mentioned, emphasizing the reach of their personal brands.
  • Combat Sports Academy is introduced as a notable gym where Bolanos and Kieran collaborate, providing resources for aspiring fighters.