Modern Self-Defense: Why Engaging Bigger Opponents Head-On Isn’t the Smart Move
In a recent video by MMA Shredded and produced by self-defense expert Jeff Chan, he expounds on a vital lesson: it’s not the wisest move to directly engage bigger opponents in a confrontational combat scenario. This experience was gleaned in a friendly battle at the Warrior Nation MMA in New York City, which was nothing short of enlightening, not to mention adrenaline-inducing! Throughout the shared clip—emphasizing a critical mantra of not “standing and banging”—Jeff faced Nick, a competitor noticeably larger in size. During the fight, Jeff strategically adopted numerous evasive measures, such as stepping back when Nick advanced, counteracting with an appropriate crossfire, and using a double-step low kick to create a buffering space. Perhaps of crucial emphasis, Jeff displayed quickness and cunning by countering Nick’s attacks. Here, he demonstrated techniques like contradicting a jab attempt from Nick by swiftly executing an inside low kick. His style was all about balance—matching Nick’s power with speed and technique, instead of solely power. Jeff’s reflex action to respond to an attack with a counter-attack showcased the practicability of this principle against larger opponents. The Power Paradox During the fight, Jeff humorously mentioned feeling the added power when he blocked Nick’s overhand—something which might not be surprising as larger opponents can generate considerable force. Interestingly, he shared an insightful observation; a larger opponent outputting 50% strength can be more damaging compared to a smaller fighter applying the same intensity. That’s just physics! This calls to mind the critical consideration of relative power in a fight. If you’re on the slighter side, increasing your power output might be a way to level the field. However, this should be dictated by the situation at hand and not overdone- the last thing you want is to compromise technique in the pursuit of power. Following the hint of increased power, Nick responded with a stirring low kick. Back and forth they went, pushing, pulling, and exchanging potent hits each possessing undeniable force. The Pitfall of the Ego In his narration, Jeff confessed that a lapse in judgment did occur, where ego dominated the scene. Choosing to engage Nick directly, he ended up on the losing side of an exchange. This experience serves as a powerful reminder that larger opponents typically command a physical advantage. Therefore, trying to out-muscle them could lead to unfavorable outcomes. It’s a sobering lesson in the importance of strategic planning and cool-headed decision-making in self-defense. In retrospect, Jeff wished he engaged more in strategic distancing, a method of frequently moving away from the opponent to avoid head-on engagement. This approach allows for better damage regulation and offers a cushion that provides time to strategize next moves. Jeff’s inside low kicks and light crossfire were highly effective against Nick’s hooks and jabs, evidence of how strategic distancing and calm composure can play a significant role. In a twist of situation, he was even able to sweep Nick during a high kick attempt.Lasting Lessons
While this video was filled with kicks, punches, and tactical maneuvers, it emphasized the cruciality of making wise strategic decisions rather than aiming for brute strength. Particularly in cases of size disparity, fighters should look to optimize their technique, speed, and cunning to balance out differences in pure power. Remember, the goal of self-defense isn’t to overpower but to protect— this principle can also be considered the underlying foundation of martial arts. By embracing an attitude of strategic defense, smaller fighters can increase their durability while decreasing vulnerability to powerful hits. In the end, power doesn’t spring from muscle mass alone; it arises from the combination of strategy, speed, technique, and, importantly, a calm composure—principles that this encounter at Warrior Nation MMA so effectively validated.MMA Block
MMAShredded is a highly acclaimed YouTube channel run by Jeff Chan. He’s a professional MMA fighter who shares his fight secrets and techniques with subscribers. Jeff’s deep understanding of the sport is evident, making MMAShredded an invaluable resource for both novice and experienced fighters.
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Last year I visited Warrior Nation MMA, where I learned a valuable lesson: don’t stand and bang with bigger opponents!😂
Its like you arent able to grasp the meaning of accountability. You always making excuses for going hard on the opponent while sparring. Its getting old
Do you ever Spar ppl bare shin? Sometimes I feel ppl rely on the shinpads too much
Us big dudes hate small dudes – y’all go hard , fasterand more stamina . Hard to win w o trying to ko you loö
You started it 😂
This one is like a bad relationship, things would be perfect if they could just communicate better😂.
It offers so many valuable reminders and shows how things can escalate easily. We have everything on display in this one including desperation, misreading of an opponent, heavy telegraphing, failure to adjust to the opponents size and weight, along with a sickening amount of ego. I love it.
The cornicopia of egos is of course offset by the display of phenominal cardio and breath control. You handled this one so well. You are absolutely fearless and this manifests in so many ways here. You hold your own impressively well, like a MA version of Optimus Prime negating the size/weight differential. You still manage to have an admirable level of fluidity and flow (think Optimus Prime with a lot of karate and jeet under the metal).
Nick's nod is super intimidating! But also very cage rattling. He has a load of power and that power is consistent even after a few good hits. I like his pace. Initially I was hoping for one of you to dial it back and hoped that it would soon be followed by the other. Obviously I was expecting too much;)
After the nod that changed to me wanting you to move in with an aggressive barrage. If ever Nick is ever in a street fight, that nod is going to be like waving a red flag at a bull;)
It's one of those times where you sit down afterwards and realize that neither party intended it to be this way and that both opponents are nice and respectful, just a little ego reactive at times.
This was a good one, ego filled but also very valiant on both parts, well done.
Respectfully, the hook and double step low kick at 1:10 caused him to up in the intensity
That jab to lead high kick I love doing as well. Great stuff man!
Bro. Id be pretty hype if I met you lol
Jeff, I recommend you look into this technique I’ve never seen before. I recently got to know about a young Thai fighter by the name of Tawanchay. His teeps are the best I’ve seen by far. He uses them for offense, defense, close and long range.
These teeps require insane amount of strength but once you learn it, I believe you can really overwhelm bigger guys like these in sparring. I highly recommend you look at his training footage. Oss!
Solid kicks
man my inside low leg kick always hits, tall oponents never see them coming or what?
I interpreted his nodding as 'yes, that caught me good, that kick was good'
Overhand right that glances shoulder = inside knee kick hard that could damage?
I love your videos, but that was 100% your ego 🙂
Not directing this to you specifically, Jeff, but I want to express my opinion on matters like this. As someone with a background in Muay Thai, I think far too often people get into hard exchanges because no one wants to be the guy who verbally tells their partner that they should dial it back a bit before someone gets hurt. Instead, I see guys get into heated exchanges as each person takes turn increasing the intensity as a reaction to the other person and next thing you know you're off in the corner of the gym having a slug fest. Martial artists always preach leaving their egos at the door because it's philosophically sound, but I think these situations prove that everyone at times let their egos get the best of them. My coach always told us that if we feel our sparring sessions are getting a bit intense, always tell your partner that you should both dial it back. Be a good training partner by taking care of your partner. Unfortunately, most gyms don't teach this, and guys never want to verbally tell this to their sparring partner because they're afraid it makes them look weak. We gotta get rid of this narrative. There's nothing to prove, just let your partner know that both people should take a step back so that bot parties can be safe, be more technical, and have a productive sparring session. There are appropriate times for hard sparring sessions. But there's a time and place for everything. Just some food for thought. Great content. Cheers.
you always theres gonna be trouble they nod their head
That was really entertaining!
no sweeps on the kick alternations?
I’m 120kg and I always let the smaller guys add more power, just feels right and even. Plus i think they will learn more that way also!
1:21
it was at this moment, jacky chan ( jeff chan ) knew he f..ked up
I love watching these, ty Jeff