Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
"I use my imagination. So when I was visualizing I just remember being so happy I might have been in streams in that shower But as I was visual. I was so happy. I was like man. I just want everyone to feel How happy I am right now just once you said that that's all I wanted to say and everything else just came from player one And I was like a vessel and I just like I feel like a rapper. I was literally just flowing and when I'm in that flow states It just happens." — The Champ
"I take it all in. I appreciate the love even the hate. It's just fuel. It helps me by the hold on to it Even the love I never hold on to it. I used to back in the day when I was young because I didn't understand Same with the hate I used to because I didn't understand that that sits with you So I appreciate it. I take it by let it go. I let it pass through by appreciate it And yeah, you just have to it's about how you see yourself fuck with anyone else." — The Champ
"My life is so exciting That's why I'm just this it's not you it's me. I'm just what you were bricky for her and she got upset Get a camera at it's just the wildest human being on the planet And he just went like this, but I think he's going tell the story about when they So exciting right now that this is not you think this is what you want to do Are you supposed to do buzz like yeah, it's cool to be at Tutsi. It's an iconic spot But I'm just saying even it right now like my life is so exciting That's not doing it for me." — The Champ
The episode opens with the host expressing anticipation for a conversation with "The Champ," highlighting the rarity of such access. The Champ then shares a profound experience of visualization leading up to a significant fight, describing how intense happiness and a desire to share that feeling fueled his post-victory speech. He likens this state to being a vessel, flowing with an almost rapper-like cadence. The discussion then shifts to the emotional impact of such moments, with The Champ reflecting on peak happiness, his fatherhood experience, and how this victory ranks among his greatest achievements. He emphasizes that success and happiness are relative and perspective-driven.
Later, The Champ discusses the aftermath of his victory, detailing a period of celebration and indulgence, but also a strategic approach to managing his social media presence to capitalize on the increased attention. He highlights his relationship with his videographer, Jeff, who has documented his career for years, noting the trust and freedom he feels to be himself. The conversation touches on themes of personal growth, the challenges of being a people-pleaser, and the development of self-awareness to manage external validation and expectations. This is further illustrated through anecdotes about unsolicited fan interactions and the importance of setting boundaries.
The latter part of the episode explores the fighter's mindset during intense competition, including the use of mind games and strategic "playing possum" during a fight. He speaks about the physical and mental toll of training, the importance of learning from losses, and the unique respect that develops between fierce competitors. The Champ also shares insights into his spiritual and cultural connection, explaining how he tapped into his heritage for motivation before his last fight. The conversation concludes with reflections on the unique bond between athletes who have shared intense competitive experiences and the ongoing journey of self-discovery and personal development.