In the recent episode of the Ol' Boy Podcast, we were treated to a compelling discussion with one of the most respected figures in combat sports, Trevor Wittman. Known for his acute analytical mind and profound understanding of the coach-athlete dynamic, Wittman delved into multifaceted aspects of his life and career, offering valuable insights for both fans and fellow coaches. Here, we paint a picture of Wittman’s journey, philosophies, and personal experiences that have shaped him into the guru he is today. 

Respect for Combat Sports and Non-Condescending Critique 

Wittman's respect for combat sports is evident throughout the interview. Despite not being an active practitioner, his interest lies deeply in understanding and critiquing fights, and most importantly, grasping the coach-athlete relationship. His instructional videos with Justin became widely popular, showcasing his analytical prowess. However, logistical issues delayed their transition to a new studio, demonstrating the behind-the-scenes challenges in delivering quality content. 

Wittman places a strong emphasis on delivering critiques in a non-condescending manner. He believes that sharing personal stories—such as the charming anecdotes about forgetting a fighter's mouthpiece twice—can make critiques more relatable and constructive, fostering growth for both coaches and athletes. 

ESPN, COVID-19, and Storytelling 

Wittman's stint with ESPN allowed him to critique fights professionally, a role he relished. Unfortunately, the pandemic’s restrictions disrupted his schedule, reflecting the widespread impact of COVID-19 on sports. Despite these setbacks, Wittman champions the power of storytelling. He believes narratives, especially those involving strategic fights or personal encounters, resonate with a wide audience, extending beyond just coaches to UFC fans and the general public.   

The Toughest Decisions in Coaching 

One of the hardest parts of being a coach, Wittman posits, is deciding when to stop a fight. This decision, fraught with internal conflict and responsibility towards the fighter’s safety, was poignantly illustrated by his experience with fights like those involving Marquardt and Perez. Wittman encapsulates the essence of a coach's duty—not only to guide but to protect their fighters, often at personal and financial costs. 

His account of UFC 268 underscores this dedication. Facing physical challenges like a back injury during fight camp, Wittman’s commitment never wavered. The successful outcomes of his fighters at the event felt exceptionally rewarding, marked by a deep sense of gratitude and reflection on his journey and hardships. 

Leg Kicks and Balance Disruption 

Wittman’s emphasis on the strategic use of leg kicks, particularly by fighters like Usman and Justin, is a testament to his technical astuteness. He elucidates how leg kicks cause pain and disrupt balance, essential for controlling an opponent’s movements. This principle ties into his concept of “position over submission,” whereby maintaining control over an opponent's balance can decisively turn the tide in a fight. 

Innovative Training and Equipment Development 

A true innovator, Wittman isn’t content solely with traditional coaching. He’s actively developing new training equipment and software aimed at providing real-time coaching feedback. By utilizing data points and cameras, he envisions apps that can make high-level training accessible to a broader audience, revolutionizing how athletes train and improve. 

Personal Reflections and Gratitude 

Wittman’s personal narratives offer a glimpse into the man behind the coach. Reflecting on his time on the streets and the transformative power of boxing, he shares a philosophy of living without the fear of death—a mindset that allows him to embrace challenges fully and stand firm in his beliefs. His connection with fighters like Justin, who share a similar mentality towards life and challenges, underscores the deep, reciprocal relationships he fosters. 

Wittman’s reluctance to participate in media interviews contrasts with his gratitude to people like Chad Ward, who support not just the fighters but the entire team during nerve-wracking periods like weight cuts and fight weeks. This sense of family and community is a recurring theme in Wittman’s journey, illustrating the profound impact of supportive networks in the world of combat sports.   

Conclusion: Living with Purpose and Integrity 

Trevor Wittman’s insights on coaching, life, and combat sports highlight a figure driven by purpose, integrity, and a deep respect for his athletes. Whether it's through his instructional videos, innovative equipment, or personal mentorship, Wittman’s influence extends far beyond the ring. His philosophy of balanced highs and lows, continual learning, and the importance of character over fame provides a blueprint for aspiring coaches and athletes aiming to navigate the challenging yet rewarding world of combat sports.  

Listen Here

"It was awesome to be able to build the roses and the, and the Justin's from the ground level up. And, and just again prove something to myself there where there's a lot of criticism." - Trevor