After more than a decade of dominating Strongman competitions, Brian Shaw has officially retired from the sport. However, he isn’t slowing down. Shaw has shifted his focus to a completely new challenge: Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). In a bold move, he is taking this transition seriously. Recently, Brian Shaw trained with one of the most renowned figures in combat sports, Gordon Ryan, a multiple-time jiu-jitsu World Champion. This shows Shaw’s commitment to the new path he’s chosen.
Shaw, having made his decision, solidified it by signing an official MMA fight contract. Although the identity of his opponent remains unknown, Mitchell Hooper, a fellow Strongman, has suggested that Shaw could face Martyn Ford. Regardless of who his opponent is, Shaw is committed to entering the ring well-prepared. In fact, his training sessions with Gordon Ryan, a multiple-time jiu-jitsu World Champion, highlight his seriousness about this new challenge.
View this post on Instagram
Brian Shaw’s Training Session with Gordon Ryan
In a recent training session captured on video, Gordon Ryan, renowned for his prowess in jiu-jitsu and often considered a large heavyweight in combat sports, stood alongside the colossal Brian Shaw. Surprisingly, Shaw’s sheer size made even Ryan appear comparatively smaller, a testament to the former Strongman’s incredible stature.
“I feel very small on the mat today, I try to convince people that I am not a big heavyweight and nobody believes me, but I think we are going to shed some light on that today,” said Gordon Ryan.
“I only have like 190 pounds, give or take, of weight advantage,” replied Shaw.
A Lesson in Technique: Brian Shaw’s Education with Gordon Ryan
In a transformative training session, Brian Shaw embarked on an educational odyssey, immersing himself in the intricate world of guard passing techniques and head-and-arm finishes from a dominant top mount position. Guiding him through this profound learning experience was none other than Gordon Ryan, a revered luminary in the realm of jiu-jitsu. In the role of mentor, Ryan carefully unraveled the fine threads of distinction between pins and submissions for Shaw, underscoring the delicate nuances and tactile sensations intricately woven into each facet of these martial arts maneuvers.
“The Pins are with bodyweight, so you are not using any strength from the top position, ideally. Then, once you apply the submission, your strength comes into play. You are not using all this strength to hold them down, you are just applying bodyweight.” stated Gordon.
View this post on Instagram
“Oh no, we are going into the cage. I had ribs, I am not going to have ribs any more,” said Dan.
Before they stepped into the cage, Gordon provided Brian with fundamental insights into executing takedowns and lifting opponents from a standing position. With Gordon’s guidance, Brian had the opportunity to interact with some of the most massive members of Gordon’s team, including one individual weighing 270 pounds.
Concluding the training session, Brian Shaw engaged in a conversation with Gordon Ryan, discussing the progress and experiences he’s gained during his MMA journey thus far.
“I get very frustrated. We do striking and we are just working on footwork, and I get so pi**ed off because I want to do it again and again since I am not efficient at it… You expect to just do it and be good. Even though it is brand new, you have that mental place where I am expected to be good at this,” said Brian.
For the complete training session, you can watch the video by following this link:
It’s worth noting that Gordon Ryan has trained with other Strongmen like Hafthor Bjornsson and Martins Licis. However, Brian Shaw’s commitment to preparing for an MMA fight makes his training session with Gordon particularly serious and comprehensive.
Brian Shaw rapidly gains knowledge in all aspects of MMA and shows significant potential. His years of Strongman training have given him immense strength and control, which he applies to his MMA journey. With several months of preparation remaining, Shaw plans to refine his physical condition and skills. As a result, he aims to become an even more formidable contender in the ring.
Overview
Brian Shaw, the former Strongman champion, has transitioned to an MMA career and is training seriously with combat sports icon Gordon Ryan. After retiring from Strongman, Shaw embraced this bold new challenge. While his opponent remains undisclosed, Shaw’s commitment to MMA is clear. Notably, the striking size difference between Shaw and Ryan during their training session highlights Shaw’s dedication to the sport. Shaw’s rigorous training regimen, which includes technical drills and sparring, further emphasizes his drive to succeed. As Shaw continues his preparation, his progression in MMA seems poised for success.
Featured Image @SHAWSTRENGTH (Youtube & Instagram)
