C-Squared Podcast Matt Thomas & James Canty | Exposure Therapy, Breathwork & Turning Chess Brains Into Boxing Weapons
Nov 28, 2025
Matt Thomas, founder of chess boxing in the U.S., and James Canty III, the heavyweight chess boxing champion, share their unique journeys. They delve into the parallels between chess and boxing, revealing how breathing techniques enhance performance in both sports. James breaks down his championship fight, while Matt discusses the importance of mental toughness and exposure therapy for athletes. They also highlight upcoming plans for hybrid combat sports, merging chess with other martial arts to create innovative training programs.
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Facing A Tough Boxer In The Final
- Canty described being scared when his opponent started swinging and focused on survival, movement, and fast chess when he returned to the board.
- He adjusted training to longer boxing rounds to build stamina for three-minute rounds.
Chess Skills Can Carry You — Until They Don't
- A high-level chess player with basic boxing defense can leverage chess to win, but this build is risky against opponents who can outbox and wear you down.
- You can't hide purely behind defending in the ring without risking TKO stoppages.
Learn To Avoid Damage, Don’t Just Harden Up
- Practice moving your head, slipping, and hard sparring to learn to take punches and avoid damage.
- Study mobile defensive boxers (e.g., Shakur Stevenson, Canelo) and drill triangle head-movement patterns.