A.J. McKee on Jon Jones v Stipe, Mike Tyson v Jake Paul, Bellator, PFL, going to UFC
Nov 15, 2024
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A.J. McKee, a dynamic former Bellator champion with deep roots in MMA, shares intriguing insights about the fight scene. He discusses the unique dynamics between Bellator and PFL and explores the evolving landscape of MMA, including his thoughts on upcoming matchups involving Jon Jones and Jake Paul. McKee reflects on the financial challenges fighters face compared to boxing while adding humor about personal experiences in the ring. His passion for the sport shines as he emphasizes the importance of mentorship, family ties, and the thrill of competition.
AJ McKee emphasizes the importance of diverse training methods, highlighting how the Body Shop gym fosters a well-rounded environment for fighters.
He reflects on his deep passion for fighting, equating it to art, where each performance represents a moment of freedom and expression.
McKee discusses the evolving financial landscape of MMA, stressing the need for strategic contract negotiations to secure better earnings for fighters.
Deep dives
AJ McKee's Roots and Relationship with Rampage Jackson
AJ McKee shares his long-standing relationship with Rampage Jackson, tracing it back to childhood. He recalls his father training Rampage and how he was immersed in the fight culture from a young age, growing up around notable figures in MMA. McKee acknowledges that being part of Rampage’s training camps was pivotal, as it offered him invaluable exposure to the rigorous life of professional fighters. His family's gym, the Body Shop, remains a central training location, now partnered with Metro Flex, fostering diverse training methods among fighters.
Training Atmosphere at the Body Shop
The Body Shop is described as a co-collaboration gym that integrates various combat sports, allowing for a well-rounded training environment. AJ highlights the unique setup of the facility, featuring a central cage surrounded by powerlifting equipment and a sled lane for conditioning. This diverse training setup cultivates a culture of mutual learning and growth, where fighters can engage with different disciplines and styles. McKee emphasizes the importance of training with a variety of athletes to sharpen his skills and enhance his performance.
McKee's Fight Philosophy and Mental Approach
AJ McKee expresses his deep-seated passion for fighting, stating that it chose him rather than the other way around. He describes how wrestling formed his foundation, seamlessly transitioning to jiu-jitsu and then finding joy in striking and knocking opponents out. This pursuit of excellence is coupled with a strong work ethic, where training on off-days is viewed as a pivotal aspect of his journey. For McKee, fighting is akin to art, where the 15 to 25 minutes in the cage is a moment of freedom where he fully immerses himself in the experience.
Legacy of His Family and Coaching Dynamics
AJ McKee draws upon the influences of his coach, his father, who is a seasoned fighter himself and remains hands-on with his training. Their close-knit relationship aids in McKee's development, as his father understands his needs, both physically and mentally. This dynamic fosters humility in McKee, allowing him to listen to guidance without ego, an essential quality for any athlete. It's this unique blend of mentorship and experience that shapes his fighting style and prepares him for the rigor of competition.
The Evolution of MMA and Fighters' Financial Landscape
The discussion shifts to the financial models of MMA organizations, with McKee noting the increasing complexities in fighter contracts amid the evolving landscape of the sport. He highlights the disparity in pay-per-view earnings between boxing and MMA, particularly for budding fighters, emphasizing that champions often fight for less than their boxing counterparts. Despite the differences in pay, he acknowledges MMA's rapid growth and the opportunities available for fighters today, underlining the importance of strategic decisions in contracts. This evolution provides a pathway for fighters to potentially secure better financial futures through planned negotiations and affiliations.
Upcoming Fights and Aspirations
Looking ahead, AJ McKee discusses his aspirations to fight for a title and solidify his place in MMA history. He reflects on his past performance and the importance of showing up as the best version of himself in every fight. The excitement for his next potential match is palpable, as he aims to continue proving himself against the highest level of competition. McKee remains focused on his trajectory, setting his sights on achieving greater success while staying rooted in his love for the sport.
