Now in days it looks like the UFC is turning into the WWE. And while many people are star struck by these larger than life personalities, others realize the trash talk is all about the money honey. But is there another reason for this diabolical dialect in modern combat sports?
Here, we take a look at how intimidation factors can potentially affect the outcome of a fight. This is not something new and has in fact been done for millennia. Everyone remembers King Leonidas’ taunting reply when the Persians command the Spartans to lay down their weapons. Leonidas challenges “come and get them!” This overconfidence is a double edged sword and can be a blessing or a curse.
A high level of confidence can lead a person to rise and conquer any obstacles in their path. Nobody even attempts to climb a mountain if they think the mountain will win. Furthermore, there is an endless list of professionals who think highly of themselves and for good reason. The question is their self confidence a result of their success, or is their success a result of their self confidence. Nevertheless, there are few that would argue that believing in yourself is a bad thing.
Conversely, false grandiosity can lead you down a path of destruction. Take Ronda Rousey’s last fight for example. You could see an almost limitless level of confidence and determination on her face that was likely falsely inspired by her trainers. I’m not trying to talk bad about Rousey as I have nothing but respect for her, but she had no business going toe to toe with Nunes and her coaches should have let her know that. Be realistic with your situation and play your cards accordingly. Contradicting this I could also argue that if one does not believe they can do the impossible, they will never achieve what is thought to be impossible.
Now I must admit that Conor and Floyd are two of the baddest men on the planet regarding their trades, but we’re not here to look at how they throw their fists as we are looking at how they throw their words. McGregor is busting Mayweather about his tax issues, so Mayweather brings a bag (ostensibly) full of cash to convey that he is the top dog and in no financial trouble. However Conor outs Mayweather and shows there is only a measly five grand in his bag; chump change. This is potentially humiliating for Floyd. He may question that if the IRS can take him down, why not McGregor as well.
However, Mayweather may have the last laugh. He continuously calls Conor a quitter, reminding McGregor of how he tapped to Nate Diaz’s rear naked choke at UFC 196 for his only official UFC loss. Mayweather will take this even one step further. Now looking into the possibility of having Diaz walk him to the ring on fight night; reminding McGregor one last time that he is not invincible.
Breaking your opponents ego and leaving them with the slightest self doubt in their mind could demolish their decisive striking action and lead to a lights out knock out punch.
Like most people, I agree that unless McGregor clips Mayweather on the sweet spot like he did with Aldo, It will likely be Mayweather by decision. But is the end strictly a result of athletic ability, or is mental toughness a significant factor as well? It is still unknown how much they have gotten under each other’s skin. We will find out on fight night.
For the rest of us in everyday life, it is important to believe in yourself, but also be realistic about your limitations. Most importantly, learn from your failures and never give up!
What do you think? Can trash talk and grandiosity give be a significant factor to the outcome of a fight? Let me know in the comments below.
Mindful Explorer 