The School of Greatness avatar

Dexa/The School of Greatness

Learn more
Published Oct 5, 2016

TJ Dillashaw: Inside the Mind of a UFC World Champion with Lewis Howes

UFC World Champion TJ Dillashaw delves into his strategic career evolution, revealing how transitioning from wrestling to MMA honed his champion mindset, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system, strategic coaching, and the diverse martial arts techniques that define his fighting style.
Episode Highlights
The School of Greatness logo

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

  • Belief & Fun

    Embracing fun and self-belief are crucial for thriving in high-pressure environments, as explains. He shares how learning to enjoy the process and having supportive teammates helped him overcome self-doubt and perform better in the ring. Dillashaw recalls a pivotal moment when his coach, Justin Buckles, advised him to appreciate his unique position and have fun, which transformed his approach to fighting 1.

    People would pay so much to be here. Enjoy the process before it passes you up.

    ---

    This mindset shift allowed him to fight with more relaxation and confidence, ultimately leading to his success as a UFC champion 2 3.

       

    Support System

    Support from family and coaches plays a vital role in building a champion's mindset. emphasizes the importance of having a trusted coach who can guide and challenge him to reach his full potential. He credits his success to the support system around him, including his wife and coach, who keep him grounded and focused 4.

    It's hard to grow with that person. And to find that coach, I think, means so much to be successful in the sport.

    ---

    Dillashaw's move to Colorado to train with Dwayne Ludwig exemplifies his commitment to finding the right mentor, which he believes was instrumental in winning his championship 5 6.

       

    Fear & Dedication

    Fear of failure and unwavering dedication drive athletes like to succeed. He discusses the pressure of individual sports, where the fear of humiliation can be a powerful motivator. Dillashaw shares how his dedication to maintaining peak physical condition and mental resilience has been key to his success 7.

    If you mess up, all eyes are on you. Because with wrestling, you don't have a team out there. It's just one on one.

    ---

    He recounts the intense nerves before a fight, which he channels into focus and preparation, ultimately leading to his triumphs in the octagon 8 9.

Related Episodes