NHL star Mathew Barzal is training with MMA fighter Matt “The Steamrolla” Frevola to prepare for the 2023-24 season. Learn more about Barzal’s quest to improve his skills and be ready for any situation on the ice.
New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal is known for his exceptional speed and skating abilities, but he is expanding his skill set this summer by training with mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Matt “The Steamrolla” Frevola. Barzal, a two-time All-Star and the NHL’s fastest skater, is preparing for the upcoming 2023-24 season by learning some helpful skills from Frevola.
Barzal, 26, has never been involved in a fight during his NHL career, which spans over 420 regular season games. However, he wants to be prepared for any situation that may arise on the ice. That’s why he has turned to Frevola, a UFC lightweight fighter and Long Island native, to teach him the basics of striking and grappling.
Frevola, 33, was born in Huntington, NY, and attended Harborfields High School, where he developed his Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills while wrestling. He has a record of 11-3-1 in his MMA career and recently won a fight against Drew Dober, earning the Performance of the Night award.
During their training session, Frevola was impressed with Barzal’s natural talent and power. Although they are currently focusing on the fundamentals, Frevola believes that Barzal has the potential to become a formidable fighter if the need ever arises.
This isn’t the first time Barzal has trained with an MMA fighter. In 2018, he joined his teammates Cal Clutterbuck and Johnny Boychuk for striking training with former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. Barzal has also sought guidance from his own teammates, including Matt Martin, during practice sessions.
While Barzal’s primary role is to contribute offensively for the Islanders, it’s important for him to be well-rounded and prepared for any situation. His teammates, such as Martin and Clutterbuck, will continue to support and protect him on the ice, but Barzal’s training with MMA fighters ensures that he can defend himself if necessary.
As the 2023-24 NHL season approaches, Barzal’s dedication to improving his skills both on and off the ice is evident. Fans will be watching to see if his training with Frevola translates into a more physical presence on the ice and if he will ever need to put his newfound skills to the test.
Fight Results
| Fighter | Result |
|---|---|
| Mathew Barzal | N/A |
| Matt “The Steamrolla” Frevola | Win (TKO, Round 1) |
Key Points
- Mathew Barzal, New York Islanders forward, is training with MMA fighter Matt “The Steamrolla” Frevola.
- Barzal, known for his speed and skating, wants to be prepared for any situation on the ice.
- Frevola, a UFC lightweight fighter, is teaching Barzal the basics of striking and grappling.
- Barzal has trained with MMA fighters in the past, including former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman.
- Barzal’s teammates, such as Cal Clutterbuck and Johnny Boychuk, have also provided guidance.
- Barzal’s training ensures he can defend himself if necessary during the upcoming NHL season.
