First MMA fight 17 days out (Conditioning/cutting questions)

Muay Tie · 07-07-2008, 11:34 AM

So I impulsively set up my first MMA match for July 25th (18 days out). I've been training strictly MMA for about 4 months now, and for the last two months I've been training under the guidance of a (in my opinion) quality pro fighter. Prior to the MMA training, I've had absolutely no wrestling experience. I have, however, had about 4 1/2 to 5 years of Muay Thai training. My general conditioning level is currently average as best.

Here are some questions I've got for you all:
1. I'm currently walking around at ~155 (5' 5" tall), and I'll be fighting in the Featherweight division (136-145). What is the best way to cut down to weight leading up to this fight? Should I cut gradually over the next two weeks, or do I hit it hard over the last week? I definitely know I can make the weight, as I'm carrying around a little extra. I've never had to cut for a fight before (I've fought Muay Thai a few times in the past, and I always just fought at my normal weight.)

2. Is there a 2-week "crash course" that I can lay on myself to improve my general conditioning level? Like I said, my conditioning is average (comparatively to other amateur fighters I know) at best, but I want to feel the confidence that comes with achieving that next level of conditioning. I know I possess the work capacity to take myself there, I'm just not sure of what's the best to hope for within the next two weeks. Any advice here is greatly appreciated. I've looked over the FAQ, and read through this forum many times, so I guess I'm looking mainly for some structure here, and some more detailed advice pertaining to this specific situation if at all available.

3. As I stated above, I have absolutely no wrestling experience besides what I've learned within the last few months, and it's all MMA-specific. It's safe to say that I have no confidence in my wrestling ability. I can toss around guys my size or a little bigger, no problem at all, but I'm easily taken down. Anything I can concentrate on within the next couple of weeks that will aid my wrestling training? I can definitely hold my own while on the ground, however. I would say I've got great defense, and I move a lot, so it's hard for people to establish a position. I'm also aggressive with subs and setting them up. Usually I stalemate with guys, so I think working some good control on the guy and getting a ref standup should be no problem. No offense to Jits guys here, but I absolutely HATE HATE HATE being on the ground. I think I hate Jiu Jitsu, but regardless, this is what I spend the bulk of my time training in.

Any and all advice/comments are appreciated. I feel a certain anxiousness now that I haven't felt for a long time. This fight is an opportunity for me to gain a spot on our local International Battle League team. I have all intentions of taking myself to the pro level, and a solid opportunity exists with the IBL tournament. Thanks in advance for your time!

1ArmedScissor · 07-07-2008, 01:07 PM

Ask your coaches first, not anonymous people on an internet message board.

vince89 · 07-07-2008, 01:16 PM

No youre not going to reach the 'next level' of conditioning in 2 weeks. If your conditioning is 'average' this close to the fight then youre fucked, just try your best and make sure to prepare better for the next one.

**Bubble Boy** · 07-07-2008, 01:21 PM

-Start dieting NOW. Don't starve yourself, but eat lean and smart. I'm gonna advise no food after dinner. Go to bed hungry. Others may tell you differently.

-There's no magic way to get your conditioning up in 18 days. HOWEVER, if you already have an ok base, I do believe it will be of benefit to you to really hit the conditioning this week HARD. Do high intensity stuff. Check out the conditioning challenges sticky in the this forum for good ideas.
Rest about 4 days out from your fight.

ChachiKiller · 07-07-2008, 01:57 PM

Respectfully. If you hate ground fighting then you are in the wrong sport.

Hard to have a conditioning breakthrough in two weeks. Work on your take down defense and your strengths. New skills take a while to learn, own and incorporate.

Replicate the conditions of the fight as much as possible for the next couple of weeks. High-intensity and hard contact.

When you get to the fight, I hope that you aren't feeling ill-prepared. I kinda sounds it. If you take the fight show-up no matter what or let the promoter know with lots of advance notice if you bow out. Your opponent deserves to fight.

Good luck.

ghostdog5 · 07-07-2008, 04:49 PM

try running 300 yd shuttles. ive been doing those for college football and they have helped my conditioning so much, i can really tell the difference they make when im sparring and in class. start with running like 3, with a 3 min break in between. go all out and do them daily, you should notice

Kimuraa · 07-07-2008, 04:58 PM

Doing Burpees/Squat thrusts is highly praised for conditioning, and adding pushups into them is a full body conditioning exercise which really kicks your ass. I'd post a vid but my computer is too slow right now.

Edit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn15VFNuhWk

PMC · 07-07-2008, 11:38 PM

I have no advise for you.. Basically because i have no experience in MMA at all.. But i can tell you one thing, and thats Good Luck..

Get a vid. post it here, I'd be fun to watch fellow Sherdoggers first fights

Reloaded · 07-08-2008, 12:07 AM

I'd say too ask at your gym, the fighters/instructors should be able to help you.

I'd cut gradually, I have no experience but having watched UFC, Pride, etc. the guys who cut like mad right before the fight gas really hard on average.

And the fight is won and lost 100% in your mind. As far as your concerned you've already won, you are just going into the ring to finish him off. Remember that, losing isn't in your vocabulary at this point.

Have fun, you'll only have 1 first MMA fight.

Muay Tie · 07-08-2008, 01:47 AM

I wanted to thank you all for the responses so far on this. Lots of encouraging words, and that means a lot. My primary coach definitely has a plan, as he's prepared for quite a few pro fights, but it's always nice to hear what advice other people have.

Some of you guys spoke on the mentality leading into the fight and that's something I have yet to be able to control. I know I need to keep the thoughts positive, yet realistic, but it's so hard! By the way, the guy I'm fighting is 6'3", and I'm a measly 5'5". Good thing everyone else in my gym is a monster compared to me.

I will definitely the post the video of the fight up. I'll need your help dissecting all the stupid stuff I did during the fight. Thanks again for all your advice and encouragement!