Episode 2 of On Paper featuring MMA Legend Ray Longo
Anthony opened the episode reflecting on his packed schedule during UFC 311 week. Unlike typical fight weeks, where he flies in on Thursdays, Anthony arrived in LA on Monday to handle media responsibilities and prep for a blockbuster card.
Why LA Weeks Are Different:
- Big cards mean more media opportunities.
- Extensive filming for UFC and ESPN content.
- A higher demand for promotional appearances.
Despite the long hours, Anthony emphasized the energy and excitement that these weeks bring, calling it “a good kind of exhausting.”
Credit: Jeff Bottari / Zuffa LLC
Ray Longo on Coaching Merab and UFC 311 Recap
Special guest Ray Longo brought his trademark humor and deep fight knowledge to the episode. As the man behind champions like Chris Weidman and Aljamain Sterling, Longo shared stories from his legendary career and broke down recent fights with Anthony and Kelly.
On Coaching Fighters Like Merab Dvalishvili:
- Longo explained that Merab’s relentless cardio isn’t just genetic—it’s years of consistent, hard work and passion for the sport.
- “Merab’s the kind of guy who will do three rounds before a sparring session, just because he loves it,” Longo said.
On Chris Weidman’s Legacy:
- Longo reflected on Weidman’s prime years, calling him a “mythical creature” in the gym.
- “If I could’ve kept Chris in his mom’s basement, he’d never have lost a fight,” Longo joked.
Key Takeaways on Makhachev
Anthony and Ray both praised Islam Makhachev for his adaptability and dominance. Despite the short notice, Makhachev showcased his technical grappling and fight IQ, earning yet another impressive win.
What Sets Makhachev Apart:
- His mindset: “If I’m the best, I need to beat anyone in the division,” Anthony noted.
- His grappling: Makhachev made Moicano, a dangerous grappler, look outmatched on the ground.
Photo | MMA Mania
What’s Next for Makhachev?
With Dana White confirming that Tsarukyan won’t get an immediate title shot, the panel speculated on potential challengers:
- Charles Oliveira in a rematch.
- Justin Gaethje or Dan Hooker, depending on upcoming fights.
Longo’s Coaching Philosophy
Ray Longo provided a fascinating look into his approach to coaching and fighter development.
Homegrown Talent:
- Longo never recruited fighters from other gyms; all of his champions started locally on Long Island.
- Fighters like Aljamain Sterling, Chris Weidman, and Merab Dvalishvili trained within miles of Longo’s gym.
Why Longo Loves Coaching:
- “There’s something special about helping someone change their life,” he said.
- Even after decades in the sport, Longo remains passionate about developing the next generation of talent.
Makhachev v Moicano | UFC
The Chaos at UFC 311
One of the major talking points was the chaos surrounding UFC 311’s main event. Initially slated to feature Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan, the bout saw Renato Moicano step in on just 24 hours’ notice after Tsarukyan withdrew.
What Happened Behind the Scenes?
Anthony shared a behind-the-scenes look at the scramble leading up to the announcement:
- Rumors about Tsarukyan’s withdrawal surfaced just hours before Anthony went live on ESPN’s pre-show.
- The production crew and UFC staff worked frantically to adjust packages and commentary for the last-minute changes.
Both Fighters Earn Respect:
- Islam Makhachev: Took on a completely new opponent and defended his title with ease, securing a first-round finish.
- Renato Moicano: Showed incredible bravery by stepping into a championship bout with minimal preparation.
Wrapping Up
Episode 2 of On Paper with Anthony Smith brought fans closer to the heart of MMA. With behind-the-scenes stories, technical analysis, and guest insights from Ray Longo, the podcast continues to deliver a unique perspective on the sport.
Make sure to subscribe for future episodes, where Anthony and Kelly promise more surprises, big-name guests, and honest discussions about life in and out of the Octagon!