Behind the Scenes with Edmond Tarverdyan

In a recent episode of the JAXXON Podcast, hosted by Rampage Jackson and Bear Degidio, Edmond Tarverdyan, the renowned coach of Ronda Rousey, opened up about his journey in coaching one of the most iconic figures in mixed martial arts. Posted on September 3, this episode dives deep into the strategies, challenges, and personal insights that shaped Rousey’s career under Tarverdyan’s guidance. The discussion provides a rare glimpse into the training regimen and mindset that propelled Rousey to the top of the UFC women’s bantamweight division.

Building a Champion

Tarverdyan detailed the early days of working with Rousey, emphasizing the intense focus on technique and mental preparation that defined their partnership. He described how they honed her judo skills, blending them with striking to create a versatile fighting style. Around the 15:30 mark, Tarverdyan explained the importance of adapting training to Rousey’s strengths, ensuring she could dominate in the octagon with her signature armbar. This approach, he noted, was crucial during her undefeated streak as the first UFC women’s bantamweight champion.

Overcoming Challenges Together

The conversation also touched on the setbacks faced during Rousey’s career, particularly her high-profile losses. At approximately 28:45, Tarverdyan reflected on the criticism he received as a coach following those defeats. He candidly discussed the pressure of coaching a superstar and how they worked through adversity by focusing on resilience and strategic adjustments. His perspective sheds light on the often misunderstood dynamic between fighter and coach during tough times in the sport.

Insights into Rousey’s WWE Transition

Later in the episode, near the 40:10 timestamp, the discussion shifted to Rousey’s transition to professional wrestling with WWE. Tarverdyan shared his thoughts on how her MMA background influenced her performance in the ring, highlighting her adaptability and work ethic. He expressed pride in seeing her apply the discipline from their training sessions to a new arena, showcasing her ability to captivate audiences beyond MMA.

Philosophy on Coaching and Legacy

Towards the end of the podcast, around the 52:20 point, Tarverdyan elaborated on his coaching philosophy, stressing the importance of trust and communication with fighters. He spoke about the lessons learned from working with Rousey and how those experiences continue to inform his approach with other athletes. His insights offer valuable takeaways for aspiring coaches and fighters looking to understand the intricacies of building a successful career in combat sports.