The Science of Building Champions

By Don Heatrick

In this new podcast, “The Science of Building Champions”, I interview top-level Muay Thai fighters and coaches and dive into their stories to discover what makes champions.

Each episode revolves arou... more

· Sports

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FAQs about The Science of Building Champions:

How many episodes does The Science of Building Champions have?

The podcast currently has 22 episodes available.

The Science of Building Champions episodes:

November 08, 2024 Eddie Abasolo Talks Muay Thai Flow!
When you think of “slick,” “crafty,” and “unpredictable,” there’s one name that stands out in the ONE Championship Muay Thai world: Eddie Abasolo.
Known for his unique, almost unbreakable flow, Abasolo has redefined the approach to fighting for countless Western Muay Thai enthusiasts and fighters.
In this interview, we dive deep into his mind, uncovering the techniques, mindset, and work ethic that have made him a fan favorite—and a nightmare for opponents.
Whether you’re a seasoned fighter looking for inspiration or a fan of Abasolo’s creative fight style, get ready for an inside look into the world of a true Muay Thai innovator.
EPISODE BREAKDOWN
Follow along with our conversation using these quick timestamps:
00:00 Eddie "Silky Smooth" Abasolo Teaser!
01:24 Accidental Muay Thai Fan: Sagat, Ong Bak, Bloodsport
05:04 The First Competition Ripple Effect
07:24 Taking Responsibility & Making It Happen
09:15 The Real Secret: Consistency
12:29 Evidence: Roles Are Reversed
13:35 Injuries as Opportunities for Growth
17:13 Fun and Flow: The Key to Peak Performance
19:46 Harnessing Fear
21:06 Optimism: The Foundation of a Fearless Mindset
23:51 What Muay Thai "Passion" Is, And What It Does
28:01 Muay Thai & Relating To All Walks of Life
30:59 Life Is Like a Fight–You Need Self Belief
33:47 Outro and Links!
Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/11/08/eddie-abasolo-talks-muay-thai-flow/
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35min
August 23, 2024 Asa Ten Pow Modern Martial Artist – ONE Championship Interview
Asa Ten Pow is a modern martial arts fighter who's upsetting the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai division with a string of recent KO's.
From traditional martial arts roots to becoming a knockout sensation in multiple combat sports, Asa Ten Pow’s journey is a testament to adaptability and evolution.
Starting with a strong foundation in traditional martial arts, Asa didn’t just stick to one path—he competed across various disciplines, blending techniques and philosophies into a style that’s uniquely his own.
This modern, hybrid approach has led to some spectacular upset victories, where he’s taken down seasoned fighters with his dynamic and unpredictable fighting style.
In this exclusive interview, Asa shares how his diverse background has shaped him into the fighter he is today, offering insights that could revolutionize your approach to Muay Thai and combat sports as a whole.
Don’t miss the chance to learn from a fighter who’s breaking the mold and making waves on the global stage.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Asa "The American Ninja" Ten Pow Teaser!
00:52 Early Martial Arts Background
03:17 Finding Full Contact Competition
05:46 Competition = Long-term Engagement
07:42 Transition to Kickboxing, Muay Thai, MMA
11:32 Blending Styles: Creating a Unique Fighting Approach
14:23 Muay Thai: Pinnacle of Artistic Brutality
17:55 Competing in Multiple Combat Sports
21:25 The Challenge of International Travel
23:34 Dual Roles: Gym Owner & Pro Fighter
26:17 Mindset and Preparation for Fights
28:22 Unique Style: Upset Victories and KO Wins
32:38 Philosophy and Evolution as a Fighter
36:00 Outro and Links!
Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/08/23/asa-ten-pow-modern-martial-artist-one-championship-interview/
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38min
May 31, 2024 Johan Ghazali Teenage KO Artist! – ONE Championship Interview
Johan Ghazali is a teenage fighting success story! With a 5-fight winning streak, including 4 KOs, 17-year-old Johan “JoJo” Ghazali is amazed at how quickly he’s ascended to the ONE Championship pro ranks.
Despite his success, JoJo isn't afraid of losses – he values the experience they bring. Patience is key for him, and he's been aiming for the top since he was 10 years old.
JoJo exemplifies what happens when opportunity meets motivation. He's the product of consistent hard work and a supportive environment. Now, with high school behind him, he can focus entirely on his fight career.
Next in his sights is the veteran Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat from Vietnam. With both fighters known for their knockout power, this head-to-head promises to be thrilling.
Johan looks forward to the challenge, saying, “Win, lose, or draw, I’ll make sure it’s entertaining. Don’t worry!”
Discover how a modern-day martial artist from a family of warriors has fast-tracked to the big leagues. Hit that subscribe button, like, and share this video with fellow Muay Thai enthusiasts, fighters, and coaches. Let's spread the love for the sport and see how far it can take us.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Johan "JoJo" Ghazali Teaser!
00:45 From A Family With Warrior Blood
02:37 Addicted Since That First Fight
03:24 Sibling Rivalry?
04:29 Other Sports Don't Feel "Real"
05:28 Martial Artist By Nature
07:15 Not Afraid To Lose – If It Builds Experience
08:36 Labelled a Muay Thai "Prodigy"?
10:32 Aiming At Rodtang And The Flyweight Title
11:58 KO's Come To You, You Don't Chase Them
13:30 Successful Traits For Fighting Are The Same For Success In Life
15:03 Inexperience – Greatest Challenge!
16:23 Maturing And Making Weight
18:40 No More High School – Full Time Pro!
20:47 Getting A Nutritionist To Cut Weight Correctly
21:46 Don't Listen To The People That Say You Can't
23:32 Outro Links!
Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/05/31/johan-ghazali-teenage-ko-artist-one-championship-interview/
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25min
March 01, 2024 Janet Todd – Remember To Have Fun
Janet Todd's Tips – Exclusive Interview with the ONE Atomweight Kickboxing World Champion!
Join us for an exclusive interview with Janet Todd, the reigning Atomweight Kickboxing World Champion, as she shares invaluable insights and tips on how to stay at the top of your game while having fun!
In this interview, Janet opens up about her mindset leading up to her farewell fight and how she's embraced the journey with a renewed focus on enjoyment.
Discover how she maintains composure in high-pressure situations and the importance of balancing structured training with the freedom to experiment and play within your skill development.
As a competitive athlete with a background in gymnastics and cheerleading, Janet reflects on her journey from amateur Muay Thai to professional kickboxing, highlighting the role of perseverance and the willingness to push past setbacks in achieving greatness.
But it's not just about physical training – Janet delves into the psychological aspects of competition, emphasising the significance of a positive mindset, courage, and the acceptance of vulnerability in the pursuit of excellence.
Whether you're a seasoned fighter, aspiring competitor, or dedicated coach, this interview offers a wealth of wisdom and inspiration to elevate your performance and approach to the sport.
Don't miss out on Janet Todd's invaluable advice – hit that subscribe button, like, and share this video with fellow Muay Thai enthusiasts, fighters, and coaches. Let's spread the love for the sport and remember to have fun along the way!

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Janet Todd Teaser!
00:38 Lessons Learned From The Last Fight
02:11 Farewell Fight vs Phetjeeja – Tactics
03:43 Designing Muay Thai Skill Sessions
05:01 The Power of Mental Repetitions!
06:23 Remaining Composed in a Farewell Fight
06:43 The Power of PLAY!
09:16 Evolving From Gymnast to World Class Pro Fighter
11:20 Parallel (Engineering) Career – The Lessons
14:27 Champion Traits – Life Traits
17:29 If You Love It, You'll Face Your Fear
19:29 Outro Links!
Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/03/01/janet-todd-tips-remember-to-have-fun-exclusive-interview/
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21min
September 16, 2023 Matt Lucas – Greatness Sucks!
Muay Thai greatness sucks? Step into the vibrant world of Muay Thai with Don and the Muay Thai aficionado, Matt Lucas...
With a decade under his belt in Thailand, Matt offers unparalleled insights into the fighting world and what it truly means to train, fight, and evolve. And why greatness sucks!
Highlights:
– Gearing up for the Showdown: Analysing the imminent ONE Strawweight Muay Thai Championship battle between Smilla Sundell and Allycia Rodrigues. How will Allycia strategise against the towering presence of Smilla?
– Snapshots of Combat: Delve into the world of combat photography, capturing moments of triumph, despair, and sheer determination.
– Muay Thai's Journey: Navigating its evolution from high-stakes betting to a stage that celebrates pure entertainment. What’s been gained, what’s been lost?
– Small Gloves, Big Impact: Delving into the heightened risks and rewards of smaller gloves in combat, and what this means for fighters.
– Bridging Cultures: The nuanced challenges Westerners face when dipping their toes in the deep waters of Muay Thai culture.
Tune in for a mix of personal anecdotes, expert analysis, and a deep love for the sport. If you're passionate about Muay Thai's past, present, and future, this conversation is unmissable.
Drop a comment below on what stood out for you, and don't forget to hit subscribe for more deep dives into the realm of Muay Thai.
Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2023/09/15/matt-lucas-greatness-sucks/
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57min
June 02, 2023 Regian Eersel: Time Is Limited
Two-sport ONE World Champion Regian Eersel rarely loses. It's been 7 years since he last experience defeat. So, how has he successfully avoided over confidence?
What would he do differently in his training if he could turn back time? And what are Regian's two biggest pieces of advice to any fighter wanting to achieve their best?
Regian shares insight into what drives a world class fighter, and proves once again that mindset shapes your results.
We wish Regian success in his ONE Lightweight Muay Thai World Title defence on June 9 against Dmitry Menshikov at Lumpinee Stadium!
Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2023/06/02/regian-eersel-time-is-limited/
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20min
July 08, 2022 Rich Cadden: Real Deal Muay Thai Veteran
What happens when a 45 year old Muay Thai coach returns to the ring to compete for a Muay Thai veteran title, after 11 years out, and with 20kg to lose in 15 just weeks? …Huge lessons, and a big win!
Rich Cadden, former 2x Muay Thai world champion, performance coach and chief instructor at his own gym, Chokdee Academy in York (UK), took on this mission and shares the lessons he learned from it.
Rich’s approach has always to be “obsessed” with his training, sacrificing his “party years” to take his fight career as far as he possibly could. As a coach, he realises others often don’t have the same level of motivation he’s always had. And that presented an opportunity to distil training down into the most effective elements and doses to achieve the greatest benefit.
This was something he found to be vital during his preparation for his Muay Thai veteran title fight. He had to temper his obsessed nature, and strive for optimal instead of maximal or he would have failed to make the starting line, let alone cross the finish line as the winner. But what was found to be essential for a Muay Thai veteran also proves to be optimal for fighters of any age. Video version and full show notes at https://heatrick.com/2022/07/08/rich-cadden-real-deal-muay-thai-veteran-sobc-podcast-ep-16/ Guest Links
You can follow Rich on Instagram @richcadden https://www.instagram.com/richcadden/, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richcadden/, and follow the Chok Dee Gym @chokdee.gym https://www.instagram.com/chokdee.gym/
And check out the Gym website https://www.chokdeeacademy.co.uk/
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1h 9min
May 13, 2022 Iman Barlow: The Secret To Winning In Muay Thai
What's the secret to winning in Muay Thai? Iman Barlow can shed some light!
In this episode, she shares valuable insight into what it really takes to take your childhood dreams all the way.
Part of the first generation of child nak Muay outside of Thailand, and with a competitive career spanning 25 years and counting, Iman knows a thing or two about what it takes to reach the top and stay there in arguably the most ferocious striking sport there is.
Few fighters start out as early as Iman Barlow, even fewer remain in the game as long she has, and fewer still achieve the kind of long-term success she has while she continues to grow!
She’s been incredibly successful, rarely losing. But here comes a paradox…
The greatest opportunities to level up are exposed when you fall short. And with fewer opportunities to learn this way, Iman has evolved a system of incremental gains designed to stay ahead of the competition.
At the heart of this is the open-mindedness to accept there are always things to improve, and even small things add up to make a huge difference.
Adopting an incremental progress mindset means even fighting at the One Championship is Iman’s new normal!
The secret is not one thing, it’s constantly chasing the challenge level a little higher, having the eye to gleam small wins from every opportunity, and the mindset to see yourself as a continuous work in progress.
Child or adult, beginner or advanced, there’s a lot to learn from Iman’s journey so far. What are the small wins you’re taking away from this episode?
Video version, show notes and further resources at https://heatrick.com/2022/05/13/iman-barlow-the-secret-to-winning-in-muay-thai-sobc-podcast-ep-15/

Guest Links
You can follow Iman on Instagram @prettykiller3 https://www.instagram.com/prettykiller3/, and follow Assassins Muay Thai on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Assassins-Muay-Thai-131679950242442
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45min
March 15, 2022 Dr. Lynne Miller: Making The Most Of Muay Thai In Thailand
Wasted Opportunities!
Most of us visiting Thailand to train are fleeting visitors at best, and fail to understand the nuance of Thai culture and the business of Muay Thai in Thailand...
This both prevents us from getting the most out of our time in Thailand, and from effectively contributing to the Muay Thai businesses that must remain viable to continue to share their art with us!
In this episode… Dr. Lynne Miller, Founder and director of Sumalee Boxing Gym in Phuket Thailand, and author of her new book Fighting For Success...
Lynne has a PhD in Psychology, a postgraduate qualification in digital marketing, and considerable UK business experience…
And now with over a decade of experience immersed in everything behind the scenes in the business of Muay Thai in Thailand, in this episode you will learn a lot!
You can follow Sumalee Boxing Gym both on Instagram @sumaleephuket https://www.instagram.com/sumaleephuket/ and Facebook @SumaleeBoxingGym https://www.facebook.com/SumaleeBoxingGym
And you can pick up a copy of Lynne’s book, "Fighting for Success: Unravelling the Muay Thai Business in Thailand" from Amazon both in print:
US
https://www.amazon.com/Fighting-Success-Unravelling-Business-Thailand/dp/1739816609/
UK
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fighting-Success-Unravelling-Business-Thailand-ebook/dp/B09J1H7M3Z
And audio book format: https://adbl.co/3hLbeXB
I highly recommend this book to anyone visiting Thailand to train, so you understand the Muay Thai scene and get the best out of your interaction with your trainers...
And of course check out the Gym website https://sumaleeboxinggym.com
Video version and full show notes for this episode with further references and resources at: https://heatrick.com/2022/03/15/dr-lynne-miller-making-the-most-of-muay-thai-in-thailand-sobc-podcast-ep-14/
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1h 8min
August 27, 2021 Panicos Yusuf: The Habit Of Hard Work
Panicos Yusuf came to England from Cyprus on a one-way ticket with just £60 in his pocket, and a habit of working hard...
He's since achieved an incredible amount in the sport of Muay Thai, owing everything to his family, his friends, his coaches and training partners.
And he's grateful to have been noticed by those in the game, and he's keen to pay it forward to those that are working hard too.
In this episode…
Panicos Yusuf, a 2 times Muay Thai World Champion, a fighter and owner of All Powers Gym in Stockport, UK... Not to mention a One Championship athlete and a Yokkao regular too...
And we speak here ahead of his fight against Chris Shaw at Yokkao 49
You can follow Panicos on Instagram @panicosyusuf https://www.instagram.com/panicosyusuf/, and follow the All Powers Gym @allpowersgym https://www.instagram.com/allpowersgym/
And check out the All Powers Gym website https://www.allpowersgym.co.uk, and all of Panicos' Warrior Collective tutorials here: https://www.warriorcollective.co.uk/?s=panicos&post_type=product&type_aws=true
Video version and full show notes for this episode with further references and resources at: https://heatrick.com
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52min

FAQs about The Science of Building Champions:

How many episodes does The Science of Building Champions have?

The podcast currently has 22 episodes available.