Like to say hello.

Ian:

A question. What do you feel is the single most important thing about you that has made you successful as a MMA fighter?

Desire?
Natural athleticism?
Skill training?

What is your best trait?

[Ian The Machine Freeman]

Ronin,

To be a champion I believe you need to have all three qualities.

Desire : The desire to win and to drive through any situation no matter how hard it gets. If he is training 2 hours a day, then you should train 3 hours a day. If he is putting 100% into a fight, then you should put 110% into a fight. Heart is something you have or you don't.

Natural Athleticism : You can make a fighter, but you are born a champion. You can train to become a great fighter, but natural athleticism is something that is within you. Training only brings it out further.

Skill training : If not only you, but your opponent have desire and natural athleticism, then skill will come into play. Both are hungry for victory, both are born champions, but the skilled man will prevail.

Ian:

Thanks!

That was a good answer! Quick, too.

[duchman]

Paul,

Could you tell me something more about londen shootfighters and anaconda jiu jitsu?

[AtletaDoMataLeao]

London ShootFighters are run by 2 young fighters: Alexis and Paul. Both are highly rated amongst the UK scene.
I know that they make a point of travelling overseas quite a lot to pick up more skills etc. I'm pretty sure that they are in Canada right now, training with the Canadian Team??
If you want, I can put you in contact with them.

With regard to Anaconda, the teachers name is Chen Moraes from Brazil.
He teaches sports jiu jitsu and recieved his black belt from Copa Jona Silva (Not sure if spelling is correct?).
He has a laid back teaching style that is suited to both the Raw beginner and experienced alike.
He's also president of the BJJ UK association, and holds regular competitions for all comers.
I think that he's been teaching in the UK for about 2 years, but he's slowly building up a big following.
Again, if you need any more info, I can point you in the right direction.

BUT, like I said before, If you get a chance, you should check out TotalMartialArts (TMA) at Ian's school in the North of England. Without being overly biased, TMA are gradually becoming a major force in the UK and have plans to extend their schools into Europe and the U.S.
Choke Athletic and TMA are currently working on bringing 'The Machine' seminars into the public eye, but at this moment in time, Ian's main focus is on the UFC heavyweight title.

Take care
Paul@Choke