Man, I won't ever make fun of anyone on TV again for getting gassed during a fight. Two 3 minute rounds against 2 different guys, maybe a 30 sec break in between and I was sucking wind by the end. Much tougher then a regular workout, I don't know if it's the adrenaline or what but it was a real eye opener that I'm not in good shape. But it was fun and I look forward to the next time.
This is why sparring is important. It teaches you what works, what doesn't, and what your limitations are.
Lol people don't know what it takes to actually throw a couple punches until they try it themselves. That's why it makes me laugh when people say they don't need to spar to learn how to fight! Plus it's fun so I can't udnerstand why you wouldn't want to! Congrats man!
Yeah, there's no way to get fighting cardio or grappling cardio without fighting or grappling. Running or sport-specific work will help, but it just won't do it without constant sparring.