In the statement, Josh Barnett expresses his satisfaction with the support he has received from Ralek Gracie and Metamoris, organizations that promote catch-as-catch-can wrestling. He highlights how well-received his participation and performances have been, and emphasizes the positive interactions he shares with his opponents after matches.
Beyond its surface meaning, this quote underscores Barnett's respect for the sport and his competitors. By describing the mutual respect and camaraderie between him and his adversaries—despite the fierce competition—he illustrates a key aspect of martial arts and combat sports: while physical battles are intense, there is often an underlying sense of honor and respect among athletes. This sentiment fosters a community that values fair play and the spirit of sport over mere victory.
Josh Barnett is a renowned American mixed martial artist and professional wrestler known for his skills in various grappling disciplines, including catch wrestling and submission grappling. His extensive career has seen him compete in multiple weight classes across different organizations, making significant contributions to the evolution of MMA techniques and training methods.