In the realm of combat sports, the concept of “control” is frequently emphasized by fighters as a critical distinction from team sports. Ben Askren, in his book “Funky,” recounts a pivotal moment from his youth that led him to abandon team sports for individual competitions. While playing football for the Lake County Chiefs in Wisconsin, he felt frustrated by his teammates’ acceptance of defeat against a superior opponent. This experience shaped his perspective, highlighting his desire to take full ownership of his performance without depending on others.
Thad Jean, who transitioned from football to MMA after a knee injury stalled his college aspirations, expresses a similar sentiment. As he prepares to compete in the PFL’s welterweight finals for a chance at a $500,000 prize, he revels in the individual nature of fighting. “No one else other than you is in control,” he says, reflecting on the personal accountability and drive that come with the sport. Jean’s journey has seen him achieve a perfect 9-0 record, recently defeating former champion Jason Jackson in the semifinals.
At just 27 years old, and with Haitian roots, Jean is stepping into the spotlight, demonstrating remarkable confidence and optimism about his future. He envisions himself as a leading figure in the PFL, ready to embrace the challenge and the accompanying attention. His unwavering faith is apparent as he discusses his anticipated success, with a confident outlook on winning the championship. “I’m excited for when I’m going to get it,” he affirms, showing a strong belief in his abilities.
As he gears up for his showdown against Logan Storley, a formidable opponent known for his wrestling, Jean is clear about his strategy. He believes in his striking skills and intends to control the fight, preventing Storley from leveraging his wrestling background to gain an advantage. Jean’s assertive mindset and detailed preparation for the fight underscore a promising potential for success.
In combat sports, as illustrated by both Askren and Jean, the emphasis on individual control offers fighters an empowering lens through which to navigate challenges and pursue their passions. This sense of control may ultimately lead to greater opportunities and achievements in their careers, reinforcing the positive aspects of self-reliance in competition.