James Johnson: NBA with Potential for the MMA Octagon?
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Time to read 4 min
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Nowadays, it's increasingly common to hear celebrities and sports figures boasting about their potential in the combat sports arena, suggesting they might have what it takes to compete – or perhaps, it's merely a strategy to amplify their fame?
Some people are really over these conversations, but there are a few influencers and athletes out there making a bit of a mark in the fighting scene.
Nevertheless, when discussions bridge the NBA and MMA, James Johnson's name invariably surfaces as a key figure. This came about when the NBA athlete James Johnson expressed his confidence in "being able to defeat Jon Jones", the celebrated UFC heavyweight icon!
Known for his accomplishments on the basketball court, Johnson also carries with him the less publicised aspect of his life as a martial artist.
There's no questioning his basketball prowess, but when it comes to martial arts, are these just boasts, or is there tangible proof of his skill?
It's precisely his background in martial arts that lends an additional, fascinating dimension to his profile, prompting the debate: is a switch to MMA a feasible path for James Johnson?
James Johnson Bio
Height - 240 lbs (109kg)
Weight - 6'7"
Birth Place - Cheyenne, WY
NBA Team - Indiana Pacers
James Johnson's martial arts training began at an early age, under the guidance of his father, who also has a martial arts background.
Alongside martial arts, basketball captured James's imagination. The court became his second home, a place where he could channel his energy, refine his teamwork skills, and cultivate a competitive spirit.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonyeast/2023/04/29/what-the-indiana-pacers-need-to-consider-with-james-johnson-in-free-agency
Are There Fight Records for James Johnson?
When he was 18 years old, he participated in his inaugural MMA match, where he is said to have triumphed with a knockout just 97 seconds into the fight. His approach to combat, reminiscent of the legendary Muhammad Ali, earned him the name 'Little Ali'.
Standing 6' 9", the 36-year-old forward boasts a black belt in karate, and an unblemished 20-0 record in kickboxing.
Holding a black belt and having engaged in multiple martial arts disciplines including kickboxing, meaning Johnson's combat skills are well-documented, so you think.
Yet, when attempting to locate his fight records and conducting thorough research, they prove difficult to find. It's reported that he has a 7-0 record in MMA.
This fact alone sets him apart from the typical NBA athlete and cements his status as one of the best fighters in NBA history.
A Bit of Trash Talk
Here’s what James Johnson had to say in a recent interview talking about Jon Jones (UFC Fighter):
"I think I could beat him for real.
But like I said, with a year of training defence. I just need ground defence."
Then Johnson adds:
"He started learning how to use your hands and your feet, what? After college?
Like, I’ve been punching and kicking since I was five or six years old."
What other Sports has Johnson pursued?
Beyond his career in basketball, Johnson has demonstrated his athletic prowess in American football, a game he took part in during his younger years, and, unsurprisingly, in combat sports.
His father is a distinguished five-time world kickboxing champion and has claimed victory in the US karate championships ten times. His mother, transitioning from street fighting, has also clinched the US championship title ten times. Evidently, their passion for martial arts runs deep in their bloodline!
Dual-Sport Dreams: More Than Just Fantasy?
The thought of an NBA star stepping into the MMA world might raise a few eyebrows, but James Johnson isn't just any basketball player.
With his martial arts skills, and the mix of physical prowess and strategic smarts he's honed on the basketball court, he's got a pretty interesting foundation for making a splash in MMA.
Still, making the leap from the NBA to MMA is a huge challenge. It's not just about getting physically ready; it's a whole different ball game mentally, too.
And it's worth mentioning, he's not exactly used to taking hits to the head like MMA fighters do on the regular.
James Johnson is open to joining the UFC after his NBA career
James has openly talked about his potential to have another MMA fight after his basketball career.
The discussion around James Johnson's hypothetical foray into MMA touches on broader themes of identity, versatility, and the redefinition of what it means to be an athlete in the modern era.
What do you think, should James Johnson attempt an fight comeback?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is James Johnson a Black Belt?
Yes, James Johnson holds a black belt in martial arts. His training and proficiency in various disciplines, including karate and kickboxing, underscore his deep connection to martial arts from a young age.
Was James Johnson an MMA fighter?
While James Johnson has not competed professionally in MMA, he has an extensive background in martial arts and has participated in kickboxing competitions, maintaining an undefeated record.
How many siblings does James Johnson have?
James Johnson is part of a large family, being one of nine children. This family, which includes six brothers and two sisters, shares a common involvement in martial arts.
