JRE MMA Show #38 with Gaston Bolanos & Kirian Fitzgibbons
NaN minutesEpisode #38
Joe is joined by Bellator fight Gaston Bolanos & head coach/owner of CSA Gym, Kirian Fitzgibbons.
Watch the full episode of JRE MMA Show #38 with Gaston Bolanos & Kirian Fitzgibbons.
Episode Timestamps
Gaston in Combat Sports
- Gaston is the only fighter competing at the highest level in three combat sports - MMA, Muay Thai, and kickboxing.
- Discussion on techniques like spinning back fist and potential risks in kickboxing.
- Conversation around legalities of certain moves like hammer fist in different combat sports.
Emotional Battles in Combat - Cody vs TJ
- Analysis of Cody Garbrandt's fight strategy in his match against TJ Dillashaw.
- Challenges of immediate rematches and emotional toll on fighters.
- Comparisons with other iconic emotionally charged fights in MMA history.
Gaston's Weight Struggles and Fight Against Eddie's Camp
- - Gaston faced weight issues and got knocked out due to excessive weight cut
- - Fought at 137 pounds instead of 142, resulting in a tough fight
- - Eddie's camp created animosity among fighters with their behavior
Transformation and Mentorship by Eddie
- - Gaston's transformation from a disliked fighter to earning respect
- - Eddie became Gaston's mentor and guardian
- - The profound impact of mentorship on development and success
Gaston's Sacrifice and Perseverance
- Gaston entered A class after a split decision win against the narrator
- His coach physically punished him in front of the narrator after losing a fight
- Gaston interrupted his coach's beating of another athlete and gave his jersey as a custom
The Decline of Muay Thai in the US
- Discussion on Muay Thai's lack of popularity in America despite its global significance
- Comparison with MMA and kickboxing promotions like Bellator
- Challenges faced by Muay Thai promoters and fighters, including difficulty in gaining TV exposure
Eddie Futch & Emanuel Steward: Transforming Right-Handed Fighters to Southpaw
- Discussion on standing Southpaw or orthodox in boxing.
- Mention of Eddie Futch and Emanuel Steward teaching fighters to switch stances.
- Preference for sparring Southpaw and utilizing power in both hands.
TJ Dillashaw & Dwayne Ludwig: Becoming a Calculated Assassin in UFC
- Insight into relationship between TJ Dillashaw and coach Dwayne Ludwig.
- Discussion on TJ's improvement and performance under Ludwig's mentorship.
- TJ's mental preparation and visualization techniques before fights.
Training at a Versatile Gym with CrossFit and Guests like Alex Munoz
- Started with Muay Thai and transitioned to MMA and kickboxing
- Discussing the unique setup of the gym with various training options under one roof
- Guest coaching from Alpha Male fighters like Alex Munoz to enhance wrestling skills
Evolution into MMA with Focus on Muay Thai for Grappling Skills
- Balancing training in different sports including Muay Thai and MMA
- Emphasizing how Muay Thai with grappling elements prepares for MMA
- Ongoing progression in martial arts and readiness for any fighting scenario
Johnson's Weight Struggle and Hydration Policies
- Johnson fighting Kabebe and moving to 45 to 45
- Struggle with weight cut and dehydration
- Discussion on smart weight cutting and hydration policies in MMA
Impacts of Extreme Weight Cutting and Hydration Techniques
- Dangers of extreme weight cutting on health with personal anecdotes
- Different weight cutting techniques and their impacts on fighters
- Importance of hydration policies and the need for better regulation in the sport
Regenerative Medicine Breakthrough by Dr. Neil Reardon and TJ Dillshaw
- TJ Dillshaw sought regenerative treatment in Panama with Dr. Neil Reardon
- Innovative approach involves using exosomes and PRP to regenerate tissue
- Impressive results show rapid healing of meniscus tear and knee injuries
Jessica's Remarkable Recovery from ACL Surgery in Crossfit
- Detailed discussion on Jessica's swift recovery and return to competition
- Reveals her outstanding commitment to rehab and dedication to training
- Highlights the non-contact nature of Crossfit as a factor in accelerated healing
Physical Fitness and Recovery Practices
- Discussion on the importance of physical preparedness and strong body stability.
- Incorporating cryotherapy and sauna work for recuperation and reducing inflammation.
- Emphasis on the role of heat and cold therapy in managing inflammation and overall health.
Unique Coaching Philosophy and Professionalism
- Coach's dedication to coaching fighters without charging them directly for their services.
- Regular coaching seminars to train other coaches and promote a community approach.
- Background in dignitary protection and executive security consulting prior to gym ownership.
From High-Level Security to Family-Oriented Gym: Reinventing the Approach
- 15 years in high-level security protecting affluent individuals
- Transitioned to opening a gym with a focus on helping people and inclusivity
- Unique gym model where professional fighters train alongside regular members
Success Through Hustle and Dedication: The Journey of a Renowned Gym Owner
- Not charging professional fighters sets the gym apart
- Focus on hustle, making connections, and adapting to the combat sports industry
- Impressive growth from 0 to 400 students in three years, emphasizing diversity and family environment
Shin Conditioning Techniques and Importance of Calf Kicks in MMA
- Discussion on the technique of checking calf kicks and its effectiveness
- Recommendations for shin conditioning including progression from heavy bag to sandbag
- Details on making sandbags for shin conditioning and the importance of proper filling and building density
Impact of Leg Conditioning and Evolution of Techniques in MMA
- Emphasis on even shin conditioning and avoiding techniques causing micro-breaks
- Analysis of the utility of low calf kicks and their influence on MMA fights
- Comparison of MMA techniques with traditional Muay Thai and observations on historical evolutions
La Roco - The Uber Talented Kid
- La Roco is praised for his talent and potential in fighting
- His unorthodox fighting style and lack of anticipation led to a slow start in a match
- Discussion on the challenges of training with karate stylists and unorthodox fighters like Raymond Daniels
Analysis of Striking Styles in MMA - A Focus on Blitzing and Karate Influence
- Importance of blitzing as a skill in MMA, focusing on Michael 'Venom' Page's impressive fighting style
- Comparison between traditional martial arts backgrounds like Taekwondo and Karate versus MMA striking
- Discussion on blending Muay Thai and Western boxing techniques for effective MMA striking
Weight Cutting in MMA with Cyborg - California State Athletic Commission Initiative
- Discussion on Cyborg's weight-cutting process and her enormous size when entering the cage
- California State Athletic Commission's 10 percent rule and potential impact on Cyborg's weight cut
- Importance of releasing fight day weights for transparency and initiatives by Andy Foster for sport safety
Judging in MMA - Adelaide Bird's Controversial Decisions and Need for Reform
- Critique of MMA judging system and the need for judges with relevant martial arts expertise
- Advocacy for more comprehensive judging criteria beyond the 10-point must system
- Call for reforms including having five judges, judges taking tests, and aligning with international standards
Miriam's Dominance with 12 to 6 Elbows
- Miriam's remarkable performance at IFMA showcased her unprecedented use of 12 to 6 flying elbows, leaving her opponents stunned.
- Her technique and relentless attacking style forced her opponents to shift competitions to the King's Cup due to the overwhelming 12 to 6 elbows.
- The 12 to 6 elbow, particularly from Miriam, was highlighted as the most dangerous elbow strike in all combat sports.
Bellator Welterweight Tournament Dynamics
- Bellator's Welterweight Tournament boasts top-notch fighters like Lima and Korshkov, promising thrilling matchups.
- Exciting matchups to look forward to include the clash between Paul Daley and Rory MacDonald, known for their strategic approaches in fights.
- Notable fighters like Lorenz Larkin are still active in the tournament, adding depth and unpredictability to the competition.
Discussion on Training Approaches and Success in MMA with Notable Fighters
- Debate on training methods to success in MMA and concerns over sparring intensity
- Importance of technical proficiency and diverse skill set in MMA
- Comparison between fighters Kodi and TJ highlighting the importance of tact and strategy
Impact of Coach 'Bone Crusher' on Gym's Success and Fighters' Evolution
- Integration of Bone Crusher as head coach and the impact on investment in fighter evolution
- Significance of multi-disciplinary coach like Darin in enhancing fighters' skills and tactics
- Positive outcomes for fighters under new coaching regime with an increased win rate of 78% in the UFC
Bellator Kickboxing Division Exclusion
- Bellator excludes women in kickboxing under 125 pounds and over 145 pounds.
- No men below 145 pounds are featured in Bellator kickboxing.
- Concerns about marketability may be influencing these decisions.
Inspiring Multisport Competitor
- Praise for the guest competing in three different sports at a high level.
- Discussion about continued interest and enjoyment in fighting since the age of 12.
- Promotion and contact information for CSA Gym on various social media platforms.