Podcast Summary
The importance of context in boxing and life: Perceptions and values are influenced by context and personal experiences. Consider the bigger picture to truly appreciate the worth of a fight or an experience.
Context and perspective play a significant role in how we perceive and value things. Teddy Atlas shared an analogy from the Denzel Washington movie "The Equalizer," where warning signs were ignored, leading to disastrous consequences. Similarly, in boxing, people's judgments and excitement for fights can be influenced by various factors, such as the era, availability of great fighters, and personal experiences. Atlas emphasized that everything is relative and subjective, and it's essential to consider the context to truly appreciate the value of a fight or an experience. Atlas also touched upon his recent experience watching Canelo Alvarez's fight against Gennady Golovkin, which he considered a phenomenal fight, but acknowledged that people's perceptions and expectations can influence their opinions.
The experience and evaluation of a fight are influenced by the environment and personal motivations of the fighters.: The quality of a fight goes beyond the skills of the athletes, as external factors can significantly impact the overall experience and emotions for the audience.
The environment and perception surrounding a fight, including the build-up, the hype, and the personal motivations of the fighters, can significantly impact the experience and evaluation of the event, even if the fight itself is a great one. The presence of controversy or external factors, such as financial incentives or distractions, can detract from the pure enjoyment of the match and leave a lasting impact on the audience. The importance of a great fight lies not only in the skill and performance of the athletes but also in the overall experience and the emotions it evokes.
Judging in Boxing: Unclear Criteria and Debates over Technique versus Entertainment: The inconsistent and entertainment-driven judging criteria in boxing leads to debates and a disservice to athletes, with the issue extending to MMA and varying commission regulations
The criteria for judging in boxing is not clear-cut and consistent, leading to debates over the importance of techniques like jabs versus hooks to the body. The emphasis on spectacle and entertainment often favors aggressive fighters, even if their clean, impactful punches are outnumbered by more technical ones. The lack of experienced and knowledgeable judges contributes to this issue, which is a significant disservice to the athletes risking their health in the ring. The problem is not unique to boxing, as it also exists in MMA, where the same judges often work. The absence of a clear, unified structure and regulations across different boxing commissions further complicates matters.
Conflict of Interest in Boxing: Money and Administration Intertwined: In boxing, promoters and alphabet organizations have financial incentives to influence outcomes, creating a lack of oversight and potential for corruption
In boxing, there is no clear separation between those making money in the sport and those administrating it. Promoters, who make money from a fighter, can influence the outcome by paying judges and having access to commission members. The alphabet organizations, which sanction fights and collect fees from champions, also want the champion to win to secure the sanction fee. This creates a conflict of interest and lack of oversight. The analogy of going to a restaurant and seeing officials and organizational heads, hosted by the promoter, further illustrates this issue. The lack of separation between those making money and those administrating creates an environment ripe for corruption. This is unlike the New York Yankees, a universally known organization, where there is a clear separation between those making money and those administrating, with umpires and crew remaining impartial.
Lack of integrity and oversight in boxing: Addressing issues in sports requires universal oversight and commitment to prioritize integrity and credibility
The lack of integrity and oversight in certain sports, such as boxing, is a significant issue that can negatively impact the reputation and fan base of the sport. This was exemplified in the discussion about the dinner between baseball officials and the comparison to boxing. The perception of sports varies, with baseball being cherished more in America and boxing having a more controversial reputation. However, historical figures like Joe Lewis have used their positions to make a positive impact and integrate sports, showing the potential for change. Ultimately, addressing these issues requires universal oversight and a commitment from all involved parties to prioritize the integrity and credibility of the sport.
Jewish Boxers Overcame Discrimination and Became Champions: During the 1920s to 1930s, Jewish boxers like Benny Leonard and Joe Lewis defied stereotypes, rose to become champions, and helped lift their communities out of poverty. Their stories are often overlooked, and it's important to celebrate their impact both in and out of the ring.
The history of Jewish fighters in boxing during the 1920s to 1930s was significantly important as they faced discrimination and anti-Semitism, but rose to become some of the best fighters in the sport. Benny Leonard, for instance, defied stereotypes and became a champion, not just for his fighting skills but also for his intelligence, coolness, and pizzazz. He and other Jewish fighters, like Joe Lewis, played a crucial role in lifting their communities out of poverty and instilling a sense of value and pride. However, their stories are often overlooked, and the history of boxing needs to be better marketed and celebrated to give these fighters the recognition they deserve. Their impact went beyond the ring, inspiring generations and creating a sense of community and pride.
The Inspiring Story of Max Schmeling's Upset Victory Over Joe Louis: Max Schmeling's victory over Joe Louis was more than just a sports moment. It showcased the power of determination, resilience, and the human spirit.
The story of Max Schmeling, a German boxer who famously defeated Joe Louis in 1936, goes beyond just sports. Schmeling's quote before the fight about seeing an opening to land a right hand over Lewis' jab is a legendary moment in boxing history. But the real truth behind the story may be less important than the inspiration it provides. The tale lets us dream about possibilities and shows how sports can be more than just physical competition. Schmeling was a professional fighter who didn't let fear interfere with his performance. His victory over the undefeated Louis was a significant upset and paved the way for Louis' eventual comeback and world title win. The story of Braddock, the champion Louis defeated for the title, also involves shady business dealings and exploitation. Despite the complexities, these stories remind us of the power of determination, resilience, and the human spirit.
Joe Louis vs Max Schmeling: A Symbolic Moment in History: Joe Louis' victory over Max Schmeling in 1938 was more than just a boxing match. It was a symbolic moment representing the superiority of the United States against Nazi Germany and a testament to Louis' talent, perseverance, and strength.
Joe Louis' victory over Max Schmeling in 1938 went beyond just a boxing match. It was a symbolic moment for the United States during a time of growing tension with Nazi Germany. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, Louis, as a black man in a racially divided country, had to prove the superiority of the United States and defeat the German champion. The pressure was immense, with the entire world watching and the outcome seen as a representation of good versus evil. Louis' triumph in one round was a testament to his talent, perseverance, and strength, making it one of the greatest moments in sports history. His short, powerful punches and ability to finish fights quickly made him a master of the heavyweight division. Louis' victory was more than just a boxing match; it was a defining moment in history that showcased character, talent, and the power of resilience.
Impact of Administrators and Judges on Boxers' Careers: Boxing's iconic moments showcase fighters' dedication, but administrators and judges' decisions can significantly impact their careers, requiring them to work their way back up.
The greatest moments in boxing, like the fight between Ali and Blackburn, showcase the intense dedication, focus, and courage of the fighters, who risk everything to provide for their families. Unfortunately, the administrators and judges, who often lack firsthand experience in the ring, can significantly impact a fighter's career with their decisions. Unlike other sports, boxers cannot easily make amends for mistakes or bad calls, and must work their way back up through the ranks to regain their position. This highlights the unique challenges and sacrifices that come with being a boxer and underscores the historical significance of iconic fights.
Boxing: A Fight for Fairness in an Unfair World: Despite boxing offering a chance for recognition through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, biased judges can undermine the sport's integrity and hinder deserving fighters from achieving justice and glory.
Boxing represents a chance for fairness in an unfair world. For fighters, it's a platform where hard work, dedication, and perseverance can lead to recognition and victory, regardless of their background or circumstances. However, the integrity of this system is undermined when biased judges fail to recognize and reward the efforts of deserving fighters. These judges, who may lack a true understanding or connection to the significance of boxing, hinder the potential for justice and glory within the sport. This is a travesty and a disappointment to the fighters, who risk everything for their chance to be champions.
Frustration with Biased Boxing and MMA Judges: Unqualified judges persist in their roles, while deserving candidates are overlooked. Promoter influence can also impact decisions, emphasizing the need for greater transparency and accountability in the judging process.
The poor performance and even corruption in the judging of boxing and MMA matches can be frustrating for fans, especially when they see individuals who are clearly unqualified making decisions that impact the outcome of fights. These individuals often continue in their roles despite numerous errors, while many more qualified individuals are overlooked. The power and influence of promoters, such as Al Haymon and PBC, can also impact the judging process, with some fighters and promoters having close relationships that can influence decisions. Ultimately, it is a complex issue with no easy solutions, but it highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in the judging process.
The Clash of Unique Boxing Styles: Wilder's Power vs Fury's Agility: The unpredictability of boxers' unique styles and their upbringing experiences shape their perspectives and determination as trainers.
Boxing matches are intriguing due to the clash of different fighting styles, as exemplified by the upcoming fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury. Wilder may not have great technique but possesses immense power, while Fury is tall, long, and agile, moving around like a lightweight. The unpredictability of their styles makes for an exciting fight. Additionally, the idea that a fighter's abilities are innate and not something that can be learned or developed through training is a belief held by some. The discussion also touched upon the challenges and lessons learned from growing up in tough neighborhoods and taking young fighters to unsanctioned fights. These experiences shaped the speaker's perspective and made him more determined to protect and guide the kids under his care.
Boxing Gym as a Safe Haven for At-Risk Youth: An unsanctioned boxing gym in the South Bronx served as a crucial alternative for at-risk youth, offering a positive outlet, self-reliance skills, and anger management, despite operating in a dangerous environment.
The boxing gym in the South Bronx served as a crucial alternative for at-risk youth, providing a positive outlet and helping them develop self-reliance and anger management skills. Despite operating in an unsanctioned and dangerous environment, the gym offered a vital escape from the destructive influences of drugs and violence prevalent in the neighborhood. The gym's founders, including Teddy Atlas, used innovative methods, such as smokers and selling liquor, to cover the rent and attract kids. The boxing program not only kept kids away from dangerous activities but also instilled essential life skills and self-confidence, transforming their lives for the better.
Navigating the complex web of lies and deception in boxing: Learned to observe, trust instincts, value honesty, and ensure best matches for kids in a deceitful boxing gym environment
In the world of boxing, appearances could be deceiving and trust was hard to come by. The boxing gym was a place where everyone looked out for their own interests, and it was crucial to be cautious and vigilant when making matches for the kids. The experience taught Teddy the importance of observing and trusting his instincts, as well as the value of honesty and transparency. Despite the challenges, Teddy learned to navigate the complex web of lies and deception, ensuring the best possible matches for the kids under his care. Ultimately, the journey taught Teddy invaluable lessons about responsibility, trust, and the importance of staying true to one's values.
Boxing teaches valuable life lessons: Boxing provides unique experiences shaping children into confident individuals, emphasizing honesty, standing up for loved ones, and facing adversity.
The world of boxing, especially at the grassroots level, provides unique experiences and lessons that extend beyond the ring. The speaker shares a story of his experience in managing fighters and the impact it had on his children. He emphasizes the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting one's loved ones, even in the face of adversity. The atmosphere of the fights, with the bongo drums and bungles, created a real and memorable experience for the children, shaping them into confident individuals who went on to pursue various careers. The speaker also highlights the importance of honesty and authenticity, even when it may not be convenient. Overall, the experiences in the boxing world taught valuable life lessons that went beyond the physical fights.
The importance of being tested in life: Our experiences and challenges shape who we become, revealing our true selves through our actions and reactions under pressure.
People's experiences and challenges in life shape who they become. Mike Tyson's upbringing in a rough neighborhood and his need to hide made him always feel like he was hiding, and it's only when we face resistance and challenges that we truly discover what we're capable of. Tyson's exceptional talent in boxing was never truly tested, and his failures in the ring, though few, showed his true character. In life, we can't truly know someone until they're tested, and their actions and reactions under pressure reveal their true selves. It's important to remember that our words and actions represent us and stay with us, and we should strive to be better than our past and live up to the code of our profession.
Mental strength and self-belief are key to greatness: Being a great athlete or person goes beyond physical abilities, requiring mental fortitude and belief in oneself, especially during adversity.
Being a great athlete or fighter goes beyond physical abilities. It also requires mental strength and belief in oneself. Mike Tyson, despite his incredible talents and accomplishments, was not a great fighter because he lacked the mental fortitude to show up and perform when it mattered most. He found ways to disappear or hide, often due to past traumas and personal weaknesses. The ring, as some call it, is a place of truth where one's true character is revealed. To truly be great, one must believe in themselves and their abilities, even when faced with adversity and opposition. This lesson applies not just to sports but to life in general.
Balance of Toughness and Intelligence in Fighters: A great fighter isn't just tough, but also smart and well-trained. Background and upbringing shape their abilities and choices, with adversity leading to accountability and strength.
Being tough is essential for a fighter, but it's not enough. A truly great fighter is not only tough but also smart and well-trained. This balance between physical and mental strength is what sets apart a fighter who relies solely on toughness and one who can make informed decisions in the ring. The background and upbringing of a fighter also play a significant role in shaping their abilities and choices. For instance, fighters like Bobby Chacon and Evander Holyfield, who faced adversity and learned to be accountable, became formidable opponents. Conversely, fighters like Mike Tyson, who were shielded from consequences, struggled to understand themselves and make the right choices in their careers.
Experiences and Upbringing Shape Who We Become: The Case of Evanda: Unconventional experiences and lack of discipline can lead to remarkable achievements but may hinder personal growth. Opportunity and discipline are key factors shaping individuals' legacies.
The choices we make and the experiences we have, especially during formative periods in our lives, can significantly shape who we become. In the case of Evanda, his unconventional upbringing and exposure to boxing led him to become a world champion. However, had he been subjected to more discipline and structure, his path may have been different. Ultimately, the decision to overlook these principles for the sake of nurturing a potential champion led to Tyson's success but may have come at the cost of his personal growth. The power of opportunity and the potential impact of discipline are two crucial factors that can influence the development of an individual's legacy.
The importance of belief in combat sports: Belief in one's potential is crucial for success in combat sports, but not everyone finds it easily. Some, like boxer Shannon Briggs, may need alternative means to fully commit to their goals.
Commitment and belief are essential for success in combat sports, but not everyone has the same level of confidence or conviction. The speaker shares his experiences with boxer Shannon Briggs, who had the talent and charisma to attract investors and supporters, but lacked the full commitment to his craft. Despite his articulate and marketable persona, Briggs never truly believed in his own potential to reach the pinnacle of his sport. This lack of belief hindered him from staying on the path to greatness even when faced with challenges. The speaker emphasizes that everyone's journey is unique, and while some may find their belief through experience, others, like Briggs, may need a different approach to fully commit to their goals. The uncompromising philosophy of combat sports, rooted in raw honesty and perseverance, comes from a combination of personal experiences and the teachings of figures like Cus D'Amato.
A selfless doctor's dedication to healthcare: A doctor overcame personal struggles to build a large practice, inspiring generations, by dedicating himself to serving patients, regardless of their ability to pay.
The doctor described in this discussion was a selfless and dedicated individual who dedicated his life to providing healthcare to those in need, despite facing challenges and hardships himself. He founded hospitals and worked tirelessly to help those who couldn't afford care, even during his own struggles with health issues. His impact was significant, as he built one of the biggest practices in New York and inspired generations of healthcare professionals. Despite the difficulties and pain he endured, he never used his circumstances as an excuse and continued to work every day, including Sundays. His commitment to serving his patients, regardless of their ability to pay, set an example of compassion and dedication that continues to inspire. (Word count: 123)
A compassionate doctor's selfless dedication: A compassionate doctor's selfless dedication inspires and improves lives, despite personal sacrifices.
The speaker's father was a compassionate and dedicated doctor who went above and beyond for his patients, even if it meant sacrificing his own health and privacy. He provided affordable care to those who couldn't afford it, made house calls, and never spoke about his own pain or struggles. The speaker admired his father's commitment and resilience, which stayed with him throughout his life. Despite the challenges and hardships, the father always "delivered" for his patients. This story illustrates the importance of compassion, selflessness, and dedication in healthcare, and the profound impact such actions can have on those around us.
Love beyond opposites: Opposites can attract and shape complex relationships, coping with loss and adversity is unique to each person, and love can bring profound meaning to our lives.
Opposites can attract and shape our lives in profound ways. The speaker's parents, who were very different from each other, fell in love despite their differences. The mother was beautiful, emotional, and loved social life, while the father was a doctor, hid his emotions, and was dedicated to his work. Their love story was marked by challenges, including the mother's illness and the father's death. Through it all, they remained deeply connected, and their differences ultimately brought them together. Another takeaway is that everyone copes with loss and adversity differently, and there is no one "right" way to heal or move forward. The speaker's experience of losing her father and being separated from her mother was difficult and painful, but she eventually found a way to overcome it and move forward with her life. Overall, the story is a reminder that love and relationships can be complex and challenging, but they can also be deeply rewarding and shape our lives in meaningful ways.
Father's unwavering commitment inspires loyalty: A father's commitment to his passions and beliefs can inspire lifelong loyalty and a reminder to honor our own values.
Commitment, as demonstrated by a father figure in one's life, should be cherished and honored. The speaker's father left him an invaluable lesson through his actions and beliefs, which the speaker remains loyal to. This loyalty stems from the deep impact his father had on his life and the unwavering stance he took in living it. The speaker's father was a remarkable man who defied societal expectations and pursued his passions, inspiring the speaker to do the same. Despite the lack of a tangible legacy, the speaker feels compelled to honor his father's memory by living up to the principles he instilled. The speaker's father's unwavering commitment to his passions and beliefs serves as a reminder to the speaker and us all to stay true to our own values and honor the legacies of those who have shaped our lives.
Doctor's Intuition and Dedication: Diagnosing the Unconventional: Trusting intuition and staying true to beliefs can lead to valuable insights, even in unconventional cases, despite lacking advanced resources.
The doctor's ability to diagnose rare and unconventional cases, despite not having access to advanced technology or resources, was a result of his keen observation skills and intuition. He was known for staying with a diagnosis, even when it didn't make immediate sense to others, and was often proven right. The doctor's humility and dedication to helping patients, regardless of their ability to pay, earned him a loyal following. His story is a reminder that sometimes, the most valuable insights come from trusting our instincts and staying true to our beliefs, even when they go against the conventional wisdom.
Judging people by appearances can lead to misunderstandings: People should not be judged based on their appearance or social status, as they may surprise us with their true character and actions.
Appearances can be deceiving, and people should not be judged solely based on their appearance or social status. The story shared highlights an instance where a woman in a nursing home mistakenly believed that a man was a doctor due to his disheveled appearance. However, when she discovered the truth, she was disappointed and lashed out at him. The man, who was not a doctor, was unbothered by her reaction and continued with his work. This incident reveals the speaker's father's character - he was unconcerned with societal expectations and lived life on his own terms, which influenced the speaker's own principles and intolerance for superficiality.
22-year-old foundation inspired by father's kindness: Dr. Atlas's foundation, with low admin costs, provides direct aid to those in need, honoring his father's legacy of compassion and dignity.
Dr. Atlas started the Dr. Atlas Foundation 22 years ago to help people directly, inspired by his father's kindness and empathy towards those in need. The foundation operates with minimal administrative costs, ensuring that all donations go directly to those in need. Dr. Atlas shares a personal story of how he witnessed his father's generosity and compassion towards a Spanish woman with six children on Christmas Eve, which motivated him to establish the foundation and carry on his father's legacy. The foundation's mission is to provide immediate assistance to individuals in need without red tape or bureaucracy, allowing them to keep their dignity and pride.
Prioritizing immediate needs and improving quality of life: Donate to the Dr. Atlas Foundation to support essential services and improve lives, the speaker prioritizes working with decent people to make a difference
While research is important, addressing immediate needs and improving the quality of life for those in need should be a priority. The speaker's personal experience with his father and the work of his organization highlights the importance of providing essential services and support to those who require it most. Donations to the Dr. Atlas Foundation can be made through their website or by calling 718-980-7037. The speaker's commitment to only working with decent people and believing in their ability to help is evident in his decision to train a young boxer for an upcoming title fight.
Assessing a Fighter's Potential: Observation, Family, and Film: Identify strengths & weaknesses, refine techniques, observe behavior, meet family, watch film, correct mistakes, repetition, build good habits, prioritize well-being, adjust ego, work in best location for fighter
When training a fighter, it's essential to identify their strengths and weaknesses, and work on refining their techniques to advance their skills. The trainer in this conversation emphasized the importance of observing a fighter's behavior, meeting their family, and watching film to assess their potential. He also highlighted the need to correct mistakes in technique and positioning, and the importance of repetition to build good habits. The trainer acknowledged that it takes a lot of work and understanding to make meaningful changes in a short period, and that the fighter must be willing to accept new knowledge and adjust their ego. Ultimately, the trainer prioritizes the fighter's well-being and family life, choosing to work with them in a location that best suits their needs.
Balancing Determination and Adaptability in Fight Training: Effective fight training requires selflessness, adaptability, and a deep understanding of an athlete's unique needs. Smart training and awareness of limitations prevent overtraining and ensure optimal performance.
Effective training and preparation for a fight requires a balance between being determined and selfless, while also being aware of one's own limitations and the need to adapt. The anecdote highlights a young fighter who, despite his desire to win, was willing to go to New York or Montreal for training, demonstrating selflessness and adaptability. The trainer, in turn, emphasized the importance of understanding each fighter's unique needs and adjusting training accordingly to prevent overtraining and ensure optimal performance. This approach requires a deep understanding of the athlete's body and mind, as well as the ability to recognize when to push and when to pull back. Ultimately, success in training and competition comes from a combination of hard work, smart training, and an awareness of one's own limitations.
The Connection Between Hydration and Life's Origins: Hydration is crucial for optimal training performance and overall health, as we originate from the ocean and need regular rehydration for revitalization.
The importance of hydration in training and overall health was instilled in the speaker by his father, who emphasized the connection between life originating in the ocean and the need for rehydration. The speaker's experience of enforcing water consumption on fighters in the past, despite resistance from older trainers, highlights the significance of this lesson. The speaker's father also encouraged the use of the ocean for healing and revitalization, emphasizing the connection between the origins of life and the importance of returning to those elements for nourishment.
The Importance of Mental and Physical Training for Fighters: Effective fighter training includes mental strength and psychological factors. Vitamins A and D, swimming, and sun exposure can improve physical condition and boost confidence. Weightlifting provides both physical strength and mental benefits.
Effective training for fighters goes beyond just physical strength and conditioning. Mental strength and psychological factors play a significant role in a fighter's performance. The speaker shared personal experiences of how vitamin A and D, along with swimming and sun exposure, helped straighten out a fighter's legs. He also discussed the controversial use of weightlifting for fighters, emphasizing both the physical and psychological benefits it provides. The speaker, who had no formal background in weightlifting, implemented weight training for his fighters to improve their physical strength and boost their confidence. The mental aspect of fighting is crucial, and anything that helps a fighter feel stronger and more confident can contribute to their success in the ring.
Unconventional Training and the Power of Good People: Isometrics training led a boxer to become a champion, and good people, even unexpected sources, can make a big impact through support and positive language.
Unconventional training methods, like isometrics, can lead to remarkable results in athletic performance. The speaker shared his personal experience of using isometrics with a boxer named Michael Moro, who became a formidable fighter and later the first heavyweight champion from the South Pole. The importance of leadership and support from good people, even if they come from unexpected places, was also emphasized. The speaker shared a friendship with a former Staten Island president, Jimmy Howell, who despite being a politician, used his position to support the speaker's foundation through fundraising efforts. The phrase "people bad" was used jokingly, but when the friend took it seriously and wanted to trademark it, the speaker realized the importance of good people and the power of positive phrases. The foundation of their relationship was built on mutual respect and the shared goal of helping others. In essence, the discussion highlights the power of unconventional methods, the importance of good people, and the potential impact of positive language.
Embracing Goodness: Acknowledging the Existence of Bad and Choosing to Make a Difference: Acknowledge the existence of negativity and evil, but focus on inspiring positive change through small actions and empathy. Choose resilience and compassion to make a difference.
We have the power to call out the bad in the world and remind ourselves and others to be better. The speaker emphasizes that there is a lot of negativity and evil in the world, but also a lot of good. By acknowledging the existence of both, we can be inspired to make a positive impact and help people be their best selves. The speaker encourages taking a stance, starting small, and using our resources to make a difference. Ultimately, we have the power to choose to be good and inspire others to do the same. The conversation also highlights the importance of empathy, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. The speaker's personal experiences and anecdotes serve as a reminder to stay strong and keep pushing for positive change.
