Despite the superior popularity of hockey, basketball and football in Canada, there may be no more unifying athlete in the country than Georges St-Pierre. Through his dedication, class and sheer domination of mixed martial arts, he’s become an icon. As Dana White says, “The guy deserves to be on Wheaties boxes.”
Already a masterful striker thanks to his Kyokushin karate background, St-Pierre took his game to a new level by (a) developing his wrestling to such a dominant level that he could defeat NCAA division-1 champs like Josh Koscheck and (b) joining Greg Jackson’s team, which includes training partners like Rashad Evans and Shane Carwin. Anyone who wrestles those guys for practice has an edge over on his opponents.
We’ve heard the rumour for years – that GSP wants to wrestle in the Olympics. Reportedly, Team Canada wanted him in 2008 but the timing was wrong. Now, his dream is very close to happening. He admitted in a recent interview that he will decide whether or not to focus entirely on the Olympics after his UFC welterweight title defense against Dan Hardy. Committing to the 2012 Olympics would require 18 months of intense training, he says. He would wrestle at 185 pounds rather than cut major weight to reach 163, the next-lowest weight class.
We’ve seen plenty of fighters go from Olympic wrestling to MMA – such as Matt Lindland and Dan Henderson. But MMA to the Olympics? That’s a new story and a testament to St-Pierre’s phenomenal athleticism. He certainly has a challenge ahead but, based on his success against Koscheck and legendary wrestler Matt Hughes, I wouldn’t bet against him.
As Olympic wrestlers endure major weight cuts, St-Pierre would likely face men who walk around 20 pounds heavier than him. But how did that work out for the hulking Thiago Alves at UFC 100? To quote St-Pierre, “technique always beats strength.” Here’s hoping he’s right. Committing to London 2012 would mean relinquishing his welterweight title, but seeing Georges with a gold medal around his neck would be worth it.
By Matt Larkin
Guest Writer