#875 - Shannon Briggs

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Shannon Briggs: From Heavyweight Champion to Mental Health Advocate

  • Shannon Briggs, known as 'Shannon the Cannon', shares his journey of reinvention through social media.
  • At 44 years old, he reveals he's finally being his true self after years of pressure and expectations.
  • Briggs discusses his struggles with weight, depression, and financial difficulties that led him to a healthier lifestyle.
• 00:03:12

  Overcoming Adversity: Shannon Briggs' Emotional Comeback Story

  • Briggs opens up about battling his demons, including depression and a battle with sugar addiction.
  • He reflects on the pressure of being a young boxing prodigy with a limited amateur background.
  • Despite previous setbacks, Briggs emphasizes the importance of perseverance, revealing he has not consumed alcohol for over five years and is focused on training and motivation.
• 00:09:14

  Shannon Briggs' Battle with Teddy Atlas: A Fight for Identity and Survival

  • Shannon Briggs reflects on his tumultuous relationship with trainer Teddy Atlas, known for his tough training style.
  • After their split, Briggs faced intense criticism from the media and contemplated suicide due to mental distress.
  • Despite hardship, Briggs found motivation in his struggles, ultimately viewing his journey as integral to his identity as a champion.
• 00:16:10

  From Homelessness to Heavyweight Champion: Shannon Briggs’ Journey of Resilience

  • Briggs discusses the trauma of becoming homeless as a teenager and how it forced him to mature quickly.
  • He highlights the importance of finding the right trainer and environment that allows him to be his true self.
  • Briggs emphasizes his battles with asthma, his lack of education, and how these challenges fueled his drive to become a two-time heavyweight champion.
• 00:18:18

  Shannon Briggs: From Homelessness to Hope with Boxing Mentor Jimmy O'Farrell

  • Shannon Briggs started boxing at 16 while experiencing homelessness.
  • He often stayed at his boxing mentor Jimmy O'Farrell's gym, which became his refuge.
  • Legendary manager Shelly Finkel gave Briggs his first financial support, recognizing his talent.
• 00:21:37

  Transformational Journey: Shannon Briggs Overcomes Struggles for His Children’s Future

  • The birth of his daughter, Chloe, four years ago motivated Briggs to turn his life around.
  • He struggled with depression and unhealthy habits until his daughter's arrival sparked a change.
  • Briggs emphasizes using past struggles as motivation to build a positive future for his family.
• 00:27:20

  Shannon Briggs' Comeback and Snoop Dogg's Encouragement

  • Shannon Briggs reflects on overcoming personal struggles and weight loss, crediting his resilience for his championship status.
  • Briggs shares a pivotal moment when Snoop Dogg inspired him to reclaim his fighting spirit with the phrase 'let's go, champ.'
  • He discusses the challenges he faced in securing fights, particularly against heavyweight David Haye and the Klitschko brothers.
• 00:32:19

  The Underdog Story: Shannon Briggs' Pursuit of Klitschko and Future Fights

  • Briggs details his long pursuit of heavyweight fights, including a canceled matchup against Wladimir Klitschko.
  • He praises promoter Chris Lawrence for supporting his comeback after struggling with depression and PTSD.
  • Briggs expresses frustration over the difficulty in getting fights despite his dangerous reputation and past achievements.
• 00:34:46

  Shannon Briggs Reflects on His Rise in Boxing and UFC Connections

  • Shannon Briggs reminisces about the boxing promotion landscape, contrasting it with the UFC's marketability.
  • He discusses his relationship with Dana White and the history of UFC's ownership by Bob Meyerowitz.
  • Briggs highlights his challenging upbringing and the impact of asthma on his boxing career.
• 00:41:56

  Shannon Briggs on Fighting Klitschko: A Journey of Challenges and Setbacks

  • Briggs details his experience fighting Vitali Klitschko with a torn bicep and not receiving payment for the fight.
  • He describes his struggles with a promotional company he started and the fallout that led to his financial troubles.
  • Briggs expresses his desire to face Klitschko again to prove himself after his previous challenges.
• 00:43:39

  Shannon Briggs's Struggle and Resilience After Losing Out on Vitali Klitschko Fight Earnings

  • Shannon Briggs expresses his emotional turmoil after not receiving earnings from the highest-grossing fight in history against Vitali Klitschko.
  • He discusses the difficulties he faced with depression but highlights his determination to fight and overcome challenges.
  • Briggs reflects on his age and training adjustments over time, seeking advice from legendary boxers like Larry Holmes.
• 00:46:02

  From the Depths of Depression to the Ring: Shannon Briggs's Journey to Wellness and Boxing Mastery

  • Briggs shares his transformation in training methods, emphasizing the importance of rest and balance after early struggles with injuries.
  • He recalls his upbringing in Brooklyn, facing breathing difficulties, and how it fueled his passion for boxing despite physical challenges.
  • Briggs celebrates his comeback by continuing to hone his boxing skills and drawing inspiration from boxing legends like Chavez and Mike McCallum.
• 00:51:50

  Shannon Briggs Reflects on Mackie Shelstone and Holyfield's Legacy in Boxing

  • Shannon Briggs shares insights on working with renowned strength and conditioning coaches like Mackie Shelstone and Tom Shaw.
  • He discusses Mackie Shelstone's significant role in preparing fighters like Leon Spinks for major bouts, including against Larry Holmes.
  • Briggs highlights Evander Holyfield as a pioneer in incorporating weight training into boxing, enabling his rise to heavyweight status.
• 00:56:11

  Shannon Briggs' Journey to Overcoming Personal Struggles and Nutrition Challenges

  • Briggs opens up about his struggles with depression and the impact of his mother's addiction on his life.
  • He credits CBD for helping him cope with anxiety after years of alcohol and drug use.
  • Briggs emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition and a clean diet for his training; he spends significant amounts at Whole Foods to maintain it.
• 01:00:00

  Shannon Briggs’ Journey from Depression to Empowerment Through Yoga and Positivity

  • Shannon Briggs discusses the deep struggles he faced with his family background, including a mother on drugs and a father in jail.
  • Briggs attributes his mental wellness and ability to cope with stress to yoga, which helps him channel his inner champion.
  • He expresses gratitude towards Joe Rogan, highlighting the positive impact of Rogan's videos on his fight against depression and motivating others.
• 01:56:12

  Reviving Heavyweight Boxing: Shannon Briggs’ Mission to Bring Back the Championship Glory

  • Briggs emphasizes the importance of re-engaging boxing fans and making boxing relevant again, especially in the heavyweight division.
  • He shares his frustrations with the current state of boxing, aiming to become a representative figure like Muhammad Ali for the sport.
  • He discusses his upcoming article with ESPN journalist Bryn Jonathan Butler, anticipating it to shed light on his career and upcoming fights.
• 01:13:47

  Boxing Legends: The Impact of Wladimir Klitschko on Modern Heavyweight Division

  • The speaker reflects on how boxing saved his life and the excitement of being called 'champ' by a kid.
  • Discusses the period of dullness in boxing while Wladimir Klitschko held the heavyweight championship, highlighting the lack of public interest.
  • Critiques the boxing community's focus on perfect records over engaging fights compared to MMA.
• 01:56:12

  From the Ring to the Reality: Personal Struggles and the K-1 Experience

  • Recalls a painful K-1 fight against Tom Erickson and the lessons learned about the brutality of combat sports.
  • Mentions his friendship with Herman Caicedo, negotiating fights, and the complexities involved in professional relationships.
  • Expresses frustration about the state of boxing and his own career while acknowledging the support from athletes like Tyrone Spong.
• 01:13:47

  Shannon Briggs on the Politics of Boxing: Fear, Fame, and a Fight with Deontay Wilder

  • Shannon Briggs expresses his frustration with boxing politics and management, fearing being taken advantage of.
  • Asserts his position as champion while acknowledging the excitement in the heavyweight division, referencing the recent fights of Ortiz and Wilder.
  • Highlights his personal journey and determination beyond material gains, specifically mentioning his responsibility towards his family and the fans who appreciate him.
• 01:56:12

  Shannon Briggs: Embracing Authenticity and the Impact of Personal Transformation

  • Briggs discusses his decision to cut his hair, a symbol of his past, and how it changed people's perceptions of him.
  • Reflects on the superficiality of material possessions and cultural expectations in sports, emphasizing gratitude over fame.
  • Shares insights on self-identity, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the responses he received from fans about his transformation.
• 01:13:47

  Shannon Briggs Reflects on Life Lessons and Overcoming Adversity

  • Shannon Briggs shares insights about his tumultuous past and the importance of self-discovery.
  • He emphasizes the role of family, particularly his wife and kids, in helping him build a positive mindset.
  • Briggs discusses the significance of maintaining a mental and physical diet, steering clear of negativity in media and daily influences.
• 01:56:12

  The Impact of Dietary Choices on Mental Health: Shannon Briggs' Journey

  • Briggs highlights the detrimental effects of unhealthy eating and negative media on mental well-being.
  • He distinguishes between physical and mental diets and their intertwined effects on overall health.
  • Shannon recounts his personal struggles with food and feelings of lethargy, advocating for healthier choices and self-awareness.
• 01:33:47

  Shannon Briggs Reflects on the Dark Side of Boxing and His Personal Journey

  • Shannon Briggs learns that all business, including boxing, is inherently dirty.
  • He shares personal struggles, including feelings of isolation after losing friends.
  • Briggs discusses his Uncle Anthony Parham's traumatic experience in the Vietnam War, which shaped his understanding of mental health and led him to initially avoid self-talk.
• 01:58:22

  Shannon Briggs: From Homelessness to the People's Champion

  • Briggs reveals how motivational phrases such as 'Let's go, champ' helped him push through tough times.
  • He discusses the importance of family and support from fans in his life and career.
  • Briggs expresses his desire to connect with non-boxing fans and wants to create a monumental moment in boxing similar to that of Muhammad Ali.
• 01:00:00

  Shannon Briggs: Rising from Adversity with the Legacy of His Mother

  • Shannon Briggs shares his mother's unwavering support, emphasizing her belief in his potential despite facing challenges.
  • He reflects on the motivational lessons his mother imparted to him, driving him to overcome asthma and achieve success.
  • Briggs expresses gratitude for the opportunities he now has to inspire others, highlighting the importance of persistence in pursuing dreams.
• 01:03:09

  Shannon Briggs: A Champion's Return and a Call to Action for Heavyweight Boxing

  • Briggs discusses the need for more frequent heavyweight championship fights, advocating for fighters to be busy and engaged.
  • He promotes his personal brand, encouraging fans to follow him on social media and support his endeavors.
  • Briggs dedicates his victory to family and friends, recognizing the importance of community in his journey back to the boxing scene.