Lex Fridman Podcast #427 – Neil Adams: Judo, Olympics, Winning, Losing, and the Champion Mindset
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Apr 20, 2024 
Neil Adams, a judo world champion and two-time Olympic silver medalist, shares his insights on resilience, mindset, and the emotional rollercoaster of competition. He delves into the significance of sleep for peak performance and reflects on his Olympic journey, touching on nutrition and mental readiness. Adams also explores the evolution of judo, the qualities that define champions, and the art of judo commentary. He emphasizes overcoming mental health challenges and navigating life after elite competition, offering a candid look at the struggles athletes face.
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1980 Olympics Weight Cut
- Neil Adams, in the 1980 Olympics, cut weight to compete in the 71kg division, a decision he later regretted.
- Despite winning all matches leading up to the final, he lost by split decision, a loss he attributes partly to poor nutrition.
1980 Olympics Match Details
- Adams won his early matches quickly by Ippon, using throws like Taiatoshi, Uchimata, and Tokui-waza and an arm lock.
- An eight-hour break between the semifinal and final disrupted his momentum, contributing to his loss.
Innate Drive to Win
- Adams's inherent drive to win fueled his judo career, a trait not always visible to the public.
- This innate competitiveness influenced his training intensity and desire to constantly improve, even after retiring from competition.
