In this special edition of Suga Snake Takes, UFC bantamweight contender Cory Sandhagen gives an inside look at the mindset and training of an elite MMA fighter. Sandhagen opens up about his pre-fight routines, how he handles anxiety leading up to a big match, his martial arts philosophy, and life outside the Octagon.

Topics covered include:

• Balancing high-intensity training camps with recovery
• Tapering down sparring leading up to a fight to avoid injuries
• Mental preparation through visualization and breathing exercises
• Overcoming self-doubt and tuning out outside opinions
• Perspective on the violence inside the cage
• Giving back through charity work with at-risk youth
• Interests in psychology, animals, and nature, including functional mushrooms
• Sandhagen also discusses controversial judging in MMA, ideas for improving the sport, and dream tag-team partners.

With his typical combination of insight and honesty, this is an inside look at the psyche of the fascinating UFC star and championship contender, Cory Sandhagen.