MMA Champion Shares Her Story to the UFC

Buttoned Up

In this episode, Daniel Seong dives into the life and career of UFC fighter Michelle Waterson. Michelle candidly reveals the intricacies of a fighter's lifestyle, emphasizing the finite nature of a fighter's career with a focus on a strategic 10-year plan. Despite a tough recent fight at the Apex, she shares her rigorous 8-10 week personalized training regimens and the critical weight-cutting practices during fight week.

Michelle opens up about the mental and emotional highs of entering the octagon, the unpredictability that leads some fighters to step away from the sport, and how amateur promotions differ from professional fights. She recounts a humorous anecdote about an unfortunate pre-fight meal and how she managed in-fight adversity to triumph using her karate background.

The podcast touches on her insightful views on martial arts for children as a tool against bullying and briefly discusses gun laws. Sharing her journey to the UFC, she underlines the importance of understanding the business aspect of fighting. Michelle opened up about dropping out of college to pursue fighting, reflecting on her early struggles and her cultural heritage. The insightful conversation also explores her passion for martial arts as a path to finding her voice and confidence.

Lastly, Michelle talks about her future aspirations, including transitioning to roles in commentary, potential gym ownership, and goals of achieving her jujitsu black belt. We wrap up with her sharing her social media for listeners to follow her continued UFC journey.

3 Key Episode Takeaways

1. Career Longevity and Planning: A fighter's career has a limited timeline. Michelle underscores the necessity of having a strategy for the future, demonstrating insightful perspectives on career and personal growth.

2. The Science Behind the Fight: From an 8-10 week tailored training regime to mastering weight cuts, athletes like Michelle embody discipline and dedication. The physical and psychological prep that goes into stepping into the octagon is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

3. Life Beyond the Fight: Michelle's passion extends beyond her fists and feet. Her vision for a transition into roles such as commentary, broadcasting, or gym ownership exemplifies a fighter's spirit adapted to entrepreneurship and mentorship.

Show Overview

02:15 Michelle found her calling in martial arts. 06:12 Grew up doing martial arts with brother. 07:27 Martial arts gave me confidence and voice. 11:45 Kids training hard, impressive dedication, demanding same. 17:06 Fighting bigger opponents to build record. 22:12 Parent wants kids to have opportunities he missed. 29:14 Moving up to 115lb division, determined to win. 33:01 Training, fight week preparation, and actual fight. 38:29 Anticipation before the roller coaster drop. 40:51 Fought on McGregor undercard, exciting. 43:10 Hospital visit after fight, daughter's concern. 47:02 Inspiring impact: hardworking role model in sports.