Carlos Condit overcoming injury, his MMA Career, and what made him different
Feb 11, 2025
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Carlos Condit, a former WEC and UFC Welterweight Champion, shares his epic journey through the highs and lows of MMA. He discusses the unique challenges of transitioning training styles and balancing discipline with enjoyment. Condit opens up about overcoming significant injuries, the role of physical therapy, and the importance of resilience. He also reflects on memorable fights and explores his ventures into the cannabis industry, highlighting the camaraderie among fighters and the evolving landscape of combat sports.
Carlos Condit emphasizes the importance of work ethic and adaptability in achieving success during his 19-year MMA career.
He discusses the significance of prioritizing athlete welfare, especially regarding long-term health and the risks associated with repeated injuries.
Post-retirement, Condit reflects on his transition to the cannabis industry while maintaining a commitment to mentoring aspiring fighters.
Deep dives
Carlos Condit: A Legendary Career
Carlos Condit, a former UFC and WEC welterweight champion, reflects on his impressive 19-year professional fighting career that included iconic bouts against legends like Georges St-Pierre and Robbie Lawler. He describes the diverse skill set he developed throughout his journey, highlighting how he balanced wrestling, striking, and submission grappling. Despite his talent, Condit notes that many of his victories can be attributed to his work ethic and the level of competition he faced during his prime years. This dedication to the sport has forged his reputation as a respected figure, known as 'your favorite fighter’s favorite fighter.'
Transition to Grappling Competition
In the podcast, Carlos discusses his recent participation in a grappling match against MVP at Polaris, showcasing his continual involvement in combat sports even after retirement. He shares how he competed at 185 pounds, a slight weight challenge considering his usual welterweight status. Condit appreciates the grappling aspect as a less dangerous environment compared to mixed martial arts, allowing him to maintain his passion for competition while minimizing head trauma. He emphasizes that, while he no longer spars, he enjoys rolling and teaching techniques in a safer, controlled setting.
The Physicality of MMA: Conditioning and Injury
The conversation touches on the physical demands of mixed martial arts, with Condit reflecting on how his training sessions evolved throughout his career. He explains the importance of conditioning and adapting training regimens to prepare intelligently for higher-level opponents, particularly in the context of his encounters with champions like GSP. Condit reveals that he suffered multiple concussions over the years, stressing the need for MMA fighters to be mindful of long-term health impacts associated with repeated injuries. This candid acknowledgment of athlete welfare opens a discussion on the emerging awareness around issues like CTE in the sport.
The Evolution of Fighting Strategies
During the episode, Condit articulates how the sport of MMA has shifted over the years, requiring athletes to continuously adapt their training and fighting styles. He notes that while he was initially more grappling-focused, the need to diversify his skill set became apparent as he ascended the ranks. Condit attributes part of his successful strategy to his ability to maintain high volume and pressure during fights, often putting his opponents on the back foot. This adaptability has been a significant factor in his longevity in a sport where evolving techniques and game plans are essential to success.
Life After Fighting: New Opportunities
Post-retirement, Carlos Condit explores new ventures, including his involvement in the cannabis industry in New Mexico, where he operates a business called Oddfellow Cannabis. He shares insights about the transition from fighting to business management, underscoring the challenges of navigating a new field after dedicating most of his life to being a professional athlete. Condit also discusses the importance of teaching and mentoring aspiring fighters at local gyms, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the sport. Overall, he expresses satisfaction with his current endeavors, striking a balance between his passion for fighting and entrepreneurial spirit.
