In this episode of The Anything Combat Show, host Johnny K sits down with world-class boxing and MMA coach Jason Parillo, the mind behind champions like BJ Penn, Michael Bisping, Cris Cyborg, Mackenzie Dern, and Chito Vera. Jason talks about his intense recent travel for cornering back-to-back fights, the reality of 35-hour flights to Abu Dhabi, and why winning makes the trip home a lot easier. He breaks down why losing in boxing can destroy a career while MMA allows fighters to evolve and come back stronger, explaining how multiple disciplines create more paths to victory. Jason dives deep into how he brings professional-level boxing into MMA—footwork, balance, distance control, stance, and how he adjusts his coaching to each athlete’s unique style, whether they’re long-range movers or in-the-pocket fighters. He shares stories about training under Hall of Fame coach Jesse Reid, the psychological side of coaching, how mentorship shapes fighters, and why the mental game matters just as much as the physical. Parillo reflects on how fighters find mentors by staying hungry, working hard, and putting themselves in the right rooms, and he explains how he notices talent, builds trust, and helps fighters find their identity. From his own fighting days to coaching world champions, Jason gives a raw, honest look into the craft of developing elite combat athletes and the spiritual, emotional, and technical depth it requires. This episode delivers one of the most insightful breakdowns of coaching, mindset, and mastery in combat sports.
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