Issue 112

March 2014

The UFC middleweight champion’s journey to catch ‘The Spider’ through his own social media

DECEMBER 2013

SUNDAY 1ST

At the end of another gruelling week of training, the UFC middleweight champ spends his evening watching some NFL and then records an impressive resting heart-rate of 47bpm, indicating he is in excellent shape for his approaching rematch against Anderson Silva at UFC 168. 

MONDAY 2ND

Another week, another tough day in the gym for Weidman as he does some Brazilian jiu-jitsu training with a team of skilled sparring partners, plus world-renowned coaches John Danaher and Renzo Gracie. 

FRIDAY 6TH

On the menu today is a session dedicated to sharpening arguably his prime skill – wrestling. After an intense practice, the 29-year-old has a plate of quinoa mango and grilled chicken. 

WEDNESDAY 11TH

The trials of fight camp are hard on the bodies of even the toughest athletes, and the Bad Boy-sponsored battler is no different as he aids his body to recover after another tough day of wrestling with an ice bath and a heated wrap for his neck. Afterwards, Weidman enjoys a chicken and pasta meal with his family. 

THURSDAY 12TH

Clearly not satisfied with having KO’d Silva back in July, Weidman continues to improve his stand-up skills with coach Ray Longo and his team of sparring partners, including UFC welterweight Stephen Thompson. Spends his evening putting up Christmas decorations outside his house. 

TUESDAY 17TH

It’s sparring time once again for Weidman at the gym of his mentor, former UFC welterweight champion Matt Serra. 

THURSDAY 19TH

The Long Island middleweight swaps his gloves for a sharp suit as he appears on ESPN’s Sports Center to discuss his imminent rematch against Silva, which takes place in just over one week.

SUNDAY 22ND

It’s Weidman’s last day of training at Serra BJJ in his home town before leaving for Las Vegas. Renzo Gracie and head trainers Matt Serra and Ray Longo are all there to help the champ prepare for perhaps the most important week of his life. 

WEDNESDAY 25TH

Christmas is difficult for Weidman as he is without his family and, with the weigh-in just two days away, unable to enjoy a full festive meal. He goes to see Anchorman 2 to pass the time. 

SATURDAY 28TH

It’s fight time! Despite being a slight underdog, Weidman’s ever-improving skills on his feet prove to be the winning factor as he checks a kick from Anderson, causing the challenger to break his leg. Weidman is gracious in victory, posting online after the fight: “Thanks for all the support! Prayers go out to Anderson!”