Meaning: The quote "Must not fight simply to win; no holds barred is not the way; you must win by the rules" by John Chambers is a powerful statement that encapsulates the idea of ethical and principled competition. John Chambers is a well-known figure in the world of business and technology, having served as the CEO of Cisco Systems for more than two decades. His quote emphasizes the importance of integrity and fairness in achieving success, whether in business, sports, or any other aspect of life.

The first part of the quote, "Must not fight simply to win," suggests that the pursuit of victory should not be driven solely by the desire to triumph at any cost. It implies that the means by which success is achieved are just as important as the outcome itself. This sentiment aligns with the concept of ethical conduct and sportsmanship, where individuals and organizations are expected to compete with integrity and respect for the rules and their opponents.

The second part of the quote, "no holds barred is not the way," further reinforces the idea that unrestrained or unethical tactics should not be employed in the pursuit of victory. The phrase "no holds barred" refers to a no-holds-barred match in wrestling, where almost any type of move or tactic is allowed. By rejecting this approach, Chambers is advocating for a more principled and honorable method of competition.

The final part of the quote, "you must win by the rules," serves as a clear directive for achieving success within the boundaries of established regulations and standards. It underscores the importance of playing by the rules and upholding the principles of fairness and honesty. This emphasis on adherence to the rules reflects Chambers' belief in the value of maintaining ethical behavior and respecting the established guidelines of competition.

In the context of business, this quote can be interpreted as a reminder that success should be pursued through ethical and lawful means. It discourages the use of deceit, manipulation, or unfair practices in the pursuit of business objectives. Instead, it encourages individuals and organizations to compete with integrity and within the boundaries of legal and ethical standards.

Moreover, in the realm of sports and athletics, the quote reinforces the principles of fair play, respect for opponents, and adherence to the rules of the game. It serves as a reminder that true victory is achieved through skill, determination, and sportsmanship, rather than through unsportsmanlike conduct or rule-breaking.

Overall, John Chambers' quote "Must not fight simply to win; no holds barred is not the way; you must win by the rules" encapsulates a timeless and universal message about the importance of integrity, fairness, and ethical conduct in the pursuit of success. It serves as a guiding principle for individuals and organizations across various domains, emphasizing the value of playing by the rules and achieving victory through honorable means.