Chad Mendes on His UFC Journey

Chad Mendes, a retired UFC Featherweight fighter, recently appeared on the JRE MMA Show #113 to discuss his storied career in mixed martial arts. Mendes, known for his explosive wrestling and striking, reflected on the highs and lows of competing at the highest level in the UFC. He detailed his experiences challenging for the featherweight title multiple times, sharing insights into the grueling preparation and mental fortitude required to face top-tier opponents. At around the 15:30 mark, Mendes opened up about the physical toll of the sport, emphasizing the injuries and recovery periods that shaped his career decisions.

He also touched on memorable fights, including his bouts against Jose Aldo, describing the intensity of those matchups. Mendes highlighted how those experiences in the octagon tested his limits and contributed to his growth as a fighter. His candid discussion provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by professional athletes in a sport as demanding as MMA.

Transition to Bare Knuckle Fighting

During the conversation, Mendes revealed his surprising move to Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), a decision that caught many by surprise. Around the 45:10 timestamp, he explained his motivations for stepping into the bare-knuckle arena, citing a desire for new challenges after retiring from the UFC. Mendes expressed excitement about testing his skills in a different format, where the absence of gloves changes the dynamics of striking and defense. He acknowledged the risks but emphasized his confidence in adapting to this raw form of combat.

Mendes also discussed how his background in wrestling and striking could translate to success in BKFC. His transition reflects a growing trend of MMA fighters exploring other combat sports platforms after their UFC tenures, seeking fresh opportunities to compete.

Passion for Hunting and Finz and Featherz

Beyond fighting, Mendes shared his deep passion for hunting and the outdoors, a significant part of his life outside the cage. At the 1:10:45 point, he spoke enthusiastically about Finz and Featherz, his outdoor guide service that connects people with hunting and fishing experiences. Mendes described how this venture allows him to share his love for nature with others, offering guided trips that cater to both beginners and seasoned outdoorsmen.

He recounted personal stories of hunting trips, illustrating how these experiences provide a balance to the high-intensity world of professional fighting. Mendes emphasized the importance of disconnecting from the chaos of everyday life and finding peace in the wilderness. His dedication to this lifestyle showcases a different side of the fighter, one rooted in conservation and appreciation for the natural world.

Balancing Life After MMA

Towards the latter part of the episode, near the 1:35:20 mark, Mendes delved into how he balances life after retiring from full-time MMA competition. He discussed the challenges of stepping away from the sport that defined much of his identity and finding new purposes through hunting and business ventures. Mendes also spoke about maintaining physical fitness and mental health, underscoring the importance of staying active even outside a professional fighting career.

His reflections offer valuable insights for athletes navigating life post-competition, highlighting the need for diverse interests and passions. Mendes’ journey illustrates the multifaceted nature of fighters, who often seek meaningful pursuits beyond the octagon.