MMA = Massively Motivational Athlete

This is a China blog, but it’s written by me and I figure there’s at least of some value to sharing a bit of my personality with my readers. Maybe not. Anyway, I love MMA (mixed martial arts) competition. In my opinion, it’s the most technically, physically, and mentally demanding sport out there, as well as being the most fun to watch. I wrote a post a few months back, which can be read here, about what I consider to be some of the most entertaining fights in MMA history. It’s a bit of an unfaithful/deceitful introduction to the sport, as MMA has evolved tremendously over the past decade (since it burst into the mainstream) and now-a-days fights are rarely so mismatched or brutal. But if you’re not familiar with the world of mixed martial arts, get familiar; it’s growing remarkably fast in popularity. For instance, George St. Pierre, one of the icons of the sport, as well as one of my favorite fighters, was officially recognized in 2008 as the Canadian Athlete of the Year. Anyway, rules, history, and whatever else aside, I am honored to share an MMA-related video that will without a doubt inspire you. If it doesn’t, check your pulse to see that you’re still alive. Watch below (sorry to those in China who can’t access YouTube):



Born a congenital amputee, trained in high school as a wrestler, and preparing for his mixed martial arts debut, Kyle Maynard does not know the meaning of “you can’t do that.” Many doubted (and still doubt) his capacity to fight, some worried (and still worry) for his safety, and others took (and continue to take) verbal cheap shots at his disability…but Kyle has clearly remained focused. In making his debut fight in Alabama this Saturday against 0-2 fighter Bryan Fry, he teaches us the worth of dedicated training, the power of maintaining a positive attitude, and the value of not making excuses. His accomplishments have inspired – and will surely continue to inspire – others to do what they originally thought they couldn’t. Today, MMA stands for Massively Motivational Athlete. Whether Kyle wins or loses his fight on Saturday, we can all admire what he’s done and what he’s shown us that we all can do.