Matt Thomas - Episode 892 - whistlekick Martial Arts Radio Podcast
Channel: whistlekick
Date: 12/02/2024

In today's episode Jeremy sits down and talks with Matt Thomas, the 2018 World Chess Boxing champion from Atlanta.

Episode 892
whistlekick Martial Arts Radio


SUMMARY
Matt Thomas shares his journey in the unique sport of chess boxing. He discusses how he discovered chess boxing and the training camp he went through to prepare for the World Championship. Matt explains the different styles and strategies in chess boxing and how the sport combines the mental and physical aspects of chess and boxing. He also talks about his role in promoting and growing the sport of chess boxing. Matt shares his journey in the world of chess boxing, from losing in the World Championship to becoming a commentator and promoter. He discusses the impact of the founder of chess boxing, Ipe, and his role in growing the sport. Matt also highlights the breakthrough event in 2019 and the future of chess boxing, including the involvement of influencers and the potential for scaling the sport. He encourages listeners to get involved and support chess boxing, whether as competitors or fans. Matt also discusses the concept of surrender and acceptance and the importance of starting something new and pursuing goals.

TAKEAWAYS
Chess boxing is a unique sport that combines the mental game of chess with the physicality of boxing.
Training for chess boxing requires managing state changes and resources effectively.
Chess boxing attracts individuals with a background in martial arts and chess, but also welcomes newcomers to both disciplines.
The sport of chess boxing offers a variety of styles and strategies, allowing individuals to express themselves in different ways. Chess boxing offers a unique combination of physical and mental challenges, making it an exciting and engaging sport.
The involvement of influencers and the promotion of chess boxing events can help grow the sport and attract a wider audience.
Surrender and acceptance are important concepts in chess boxing and in life, allowing individuals to find their true roles and contribute to the community.
Starting something new and pursuing goals, even later in life, can bring a sense of fulfillment and excitement.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:15 Discovering Chess Boxing
11:42 Experience in Calcutta, India
15:49 Training Camp for Chess Boxing
32:02 Different Styles in Chess Boxing
37:05 Endings in Chess Boxing
42:03 Role in Chess Boxing
46:43 Conquering vs. Defending
47:31 Losing in the World Championship and the Role of Chess Boxing Commentator
48:30 The Last Words of the Founder and the USA Today Feature
49:19 Choosing a Role in the Chess Boxing Community
50:46 The Breakthrough Event in 2019
56:18 The Inflection Point and the Future of Chess Boxing
01:03:14 The Concept of Surrender and Acceptance
01:04:10 The Massive Event in 2022 and the Acceptance of Chess Boxing
01:05:08 The Call to Action and Building Team USA
01:11:26 How to Get Involved and Support Chess Boxing
01:12:34 Starting Something New and Pursuing Goals

Connect with Matt Thomas on all platforms: @movingwithmat 



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