I was listening to Roy Jones' comments this weekend and thinking about pro fighters I've known or trained with and how vital that sense of self belief is to just getting in the ring or cage. It's rare to meet a fighter who doesn't think they're just a couple wins away from a title shot or good enough to beat anyone anywhere. Generally speaking, the job of the trainer or manager is to have a more realistic outlook, but is it possible a fighter can still compete without self belief that sometimes borders on the delusional? Some fighters talk the talk because they need or want the payday, of course, but I'm sure even Conor had to believe in his heart of hearts that he could possibly have beaten Floyd in order to make it through camp.
Anyone seen or known a fighter (under 35) who was just flat out like "I suck" or "I'm so-so" and still competed well? It seems like it's possible that a more empirical approach to training and fighting could yield better results in a career, but I'm not sure it's possible to risk getting KOed if you don't believe there's a chance it might not happen.
Note: Forest Griffin might be one exception.
Anyone seen or known a fighter (under 35) who was just flat out like "I suck" or "I'm so-so" and still competed well? It seems like it's possible that a more empirical approach to training and fighting could yield better results in a career, but I'm not sure it's possible to risk getting KOed if you don't believe there's a chance it might not happen.
Note: Forest Griffin might be one exception.