Digital Social Hour with Sean Kelly
Episode: "Why This UFC Star REGRETS His Past Mental Approach to Fighting | Michael Chandler DSH #955"
Release Date: December 6, 2024
Introduction to Michael Chandler
Timestamp: [00:30] – [01:00]
In this episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly welcomes Michael Chandler, a renowned UFC fighter, to Nashville. The conversation kicks off with Chandler expressing his admiration for the city and its suitability for raising a family, highlighting his two sons and the community's supportive nature.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "It's a great place to raise a family. You know, I've got two sons and the people are just top notch." [01:02]
Transition to the UFC and Mental Approach
Timestamp: [02:09] – [03:24]
Chandler delves into his relentless training regimen, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition even without an imminent fight. He attributes his longevity in the sport to his unwavering dedication, stating:
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "So for the most part, man, I'm 100% go all the time. And I think that's why I've had such longevity in the sport." [02:33]
Chandler reflects on his mental approach, acknowledging past self-criticisms over minor setbacks and the importance of balancing intensity with moments of relaxation to prevent burnout.
Training and Staying in Shape
Timestamp: [03:24] – [04:37]
Despite not having a fight lined up, Chandler maintains a rigorous training schedule. He discusses the significance of consistent conditioning to avoid the pitfalls of post-training camp deconditioning, such as gaining weight and losing agility.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "I just try to stay in shape all the time." [02:56]
Chandler also touches on his collaboration with Gary Bracken of 10x Health, which has significantly enhanced his performance through advanced protocols like cold plunges and red light therapy.
Reflections on Past Fights and Regrets
Timestamp: [04:33] – [05:29]
Chandler shares his experience awaiting a potential fight with Conor McGregor, which ultimately fell through. This period allowed him to reset his training and reignite his passion for fighting, leading to his most successful training camp to date.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "My last camp I had the best camp of my life... it was the best sparring session I ever had." [04:28]
He expresses optimism about facing top contenders in future matchups, reinforcing his goal to win the UFC gold by 2025.
Fighting Style and Strategy
Timestamp: [06:30] – [08:55]
Chandler discusses his strategic focus on leveraging his strengths rather than dwelling on weaknesses. He believes that concentrating on what he excels at prevents him from becoming a "self-fulfilling prophecy" of his vulnerabilities.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "I've always focused so much more on my strengths, what I'm good at... But overall I'd rather double down on my strengths." [08:07]
He draws parallels between preparing for fights and running a business, highlighting the importance of maximizing his inherent abilities to stay competitive in the UFC.
Personal Life and Family
Timestamp: [23:45] – [26:51]
Chandler opens up about his upbringing in a hardworking family, crediting his parents for instilling a strong work ethic and discipline. Despite their busy schedules, his parents ensured he and his brothers had the freedom to engage in various activities, fostering independence and resilience.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "Every single day my dad woke up at 5am... they just kept on going." [30:47]
He emphasizes the challenges and joys of fatherhood, striving to balance his demanding career with being a present and supportive dad. Chandler shares his approach to parenting, encouraging his sons to pursue their passions while avoiding the pressures he faced during his youth.
Mental Health Journey
Timestamp: [35:04] – [39:08]
Chandler candidly discusses his struggles with mental health, particularly after experiencing a series of losses in the UFC. He admits to falling into self-pity and isolation but overcame these challenges by actively engaging with friends and maintaining transparency about his feelings.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "I could do all the push-ups and do all the reps... but I'm not truly believing it in my mind." [37:32]
Chandler underscores the importance of mindset training, asserting that true belief in oneself is crucial for consistent performance and resilience in the face of setbacks.
Views on Female Fighters
Timestamp: [28:05] – [28:43]
Addressing the strength and capability of female fighters, Chandler expresses deep respect for their skills and toughness. He acknowledges the physical differences and unique challenges they face but firmly believes that female fighters are more than capable of dominating their opponents.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "I think they would destroy them." [28:05]
He highlights fighters like Weyli, the 125-pound champion, praising their technical prowess and combat readiness.
Future Plans and Retirement
Timestamp: [41:59] – [42:52]
Chandler reflects on his longevity in the sport, considering the possibility of fighting into his 40s, though he prioritizes his role as a father and husband above his fighting career. While not actively planning retirement, he acknowledges the physical demands of MMA and the inevitable decision to retire when the time is right.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "At some point, the most important thing that I will ever be in my entire life is dad and husband." [42:26]
Closing Thoughts
Timestamp: [42:57] – [43:24]
In his concluding remarks, Chandler emphasizes the power of perseverance, integrity, and self-belief. He encourages listeners to strive for excellence in all aspects of life, using his own journey as a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and the right mindset.
Quote:
Michael Chandler: "If you keep on going, you do the right thing and you operate with integrity, anything is possible." [42:57]
Sean Kelly thanks Chandler for his inspiring insights, wrapping up an episode filled with personal revelations, professional strategies, and motivational reflections.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
On Longevity in the Sport:
"For the most part, man, I'm 100% go all the time. And I think that's why I've had such longevity in the sport." [02:33]
-
On Transitioning to UFC:
"It worked out great, and I'm really glad I waited till 2020 to do." [10:45]
-
On Fighter Weaknesses:
"I'm constantly working on those things. But overall I'd rather double down on my strengths." [08:07]
-
On Mental Health:
"You are what you are and where you are because of what has gone inside of your ears, in between your ears." [35:04]
-
On Parenting:
"I want my son to have the perspective that, hey, just because he's an authority figure and just because he's my dad... he knows he's going to make mistakes." [33:07]
-
On Future Goals:
"I believe I win gold by 2025." [03:24]
Conclusion
This episode of Digital Social Hour offers a deep dive into Michael Chandler's multifaceted life as a UFC fighter, father, and individual striving for personal growth. Chandler's honest reflections on his mental approach, training philosophy, and personal challenges provide valuable insights for listeners aspiring to excel in their own endeavors. His emphasis on balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities serves as an inspiring blueprint for holistic success.