MMA Fighters and Why Personality Matters (Or Does It?)

Human nature dictates that we tend to like people that most remind us of ourselves. Not necessarily in appearance (I know what you’re thinking…James Ryan and Brad Pitt must be like two peas in a pod).

I’m referring of course, to personality.

I took an on-line quiz once that matched up my “management personality” with a famous leader in history. I’ll let you stew on that one for a minute or two first.

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This generalization is not set in stone of course, as each human being is different in a variety of ways. Some things however, aren’t as different as you may think.

Assuming that you are not the self-loathing type who possesses incredibly low confidence and self-esteem, then the reality is that you would likely be drawn to a another person based on a human “connection.”

We are drawn to values and personal characteristics that remind us of ourselves and of our own moral beliefs.

For example, if you are a huge believer in sportsmanship and honour (notice the use of the “u,” eh?), then some fighters like Shinya Aoki or Tito Ortiz may be a major turn-off for you, and you would in turn, boo them at any given chance.

Even in cases where you felt that they might be the better fighter in a match-up, you would still be inclined to bet against them based on a strong desire to see them lose.

So what makes the perfect personality for being a fighter, and does it even matter?

First, let’s define what it means exactly to “have” a personality.

Basically, everyone has one.

Some are outgoing, some have a never quit attitude, some complain non-stop and feel that they are the victim in life, some blame others for all of their problems, some refuse to ever give up, some are the life of the party, some are great public speakers, some hate being in large groups, some are as quiet as a mouse, and others don’t know when to shut up.

(Cough…Tito…Cough…)

The only thing that really matters is, which one is the most like you? Which fighter do you feel the strongest connection to?

Think about your favourite fighter for a second (don’t worry…I’ll wait) and ask yourself, what is it that you really like the most about him (or her)?

Then, see if there is a connection in what you admire most about them, and what you see in yourself (values). Perhaps it is a quality that you are most proud of even?

See the connection yet?

Not everyone needs to be extremely camera-friendly and extroverted in order to be successful either. Jake Shields for instance, is considered by many as being a complete bore.

He also happens to be the current Strikeforce middleweight champion, and for as many people who think that he is boring to watch and listen to, there are just as many people who respect his quiet demeanour and professional attitude.

To those fans—they couldn’t care less if Shield’s is as out-going or personable as someone like Jason “Mayhem” Miller. In fact, fans of Shields would almost naturally despise Miller because of their polar entities.

Right now, perhaps some of you are thinking that in our subjective world, it doesn’t really matter one way or the other. All that really matters is: Who can fight the best?

Right?

Then why do so many fans clearly feel the need to constantly weigh in on issues that offend and bother them when it comes to fighter personalities and/or behaviours?

Look at Brock Lesnar—either you love him, or you hate him. Rarely is there an in-between. Same with Fedor.

In fact, looking at those two personalities and take notice of how completely different they are. It really should be of no surprise that the fans of one, feel very strongly against the other.

Maybe there’s even some deep psychological need that the fans have to see these two men battle it out that has absolutely nothing to do with who is the best “fighter,” but rather, who is the greatest “personality?”

Who are the greatest fans?

I know… I know… sounds strange.

That’s because it is.

And no offence to Kimbo Slice, but he is hardly a great fighter—mediocre at best.

But you throw him on a card, headlining across the Octagon from Chuck Liddell, and the pay-per-view numbers would set an all time head-spinning record (and certainly not because they are the best fighters).

So again, does personality matter?

I would have to answer—yes.

Another issue worth discussing is; how does a fighter go about “mirroring” the psychological needs of his audience in order to gain greater acceptance and popularity? Is it even possible?

Stay tuned fight fans…there’s more on the way.

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And if you’re curious—Hitler.

A youth football coach was born.

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These are my opinions. If you don’t like them…I have others. Check them out at www.coachjamesryan.com