JRE MMA Show #142 with Matt Serra, Din Thomas & John Rallo

by

5-Jul-23




This podcast offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane as retired mixed martial artists Matt Serra, Din Thomas, and John Rallo join Joe Rogan to reminisce about the early days of the UFC. They share humorous anecdotes about their struggles, the evolution of the sport, and the wild characters they encountered. The conversation touches on steroid use in the early UFC, the evolution of Jiu Jitsu, the dangers of weight cutting, and the changing landscape of MMA.

1. The Early Days of the UFC:

  • The UFC in the early 2000s was a fringe sport with a precarious future.
  • Fighters often faced financial struggles and had to make sacrifices to pursue their careers.
  • The UFC was a different animal back then, with a more raw and chaotic atmosphere.
  • The sport’s evolution from a fringe to a mainstream phenomenon is remarkable.

2. Steroid Use in Early MMA:

  • The conversation dives into the prevalence of steroid use in the early days of the UFC, when there were no comprehensive testing protocols.
  • The panelists speculate on which fighters were likely using performance-enhancing drugs.
  • They acknowledge the significant impact of USADA’s implementation on the sport, creating a more level playing field.
  • The discussion raises questions about the ethics of steroid use in sports and the potential consequences for athletes.

3. The Importance of Jiu Jitsu:

  • The podcast highlights the significance of Jiu Jitsu in MMA, particularly in its early days.
  • The panelists discuss the evolution of the art from its underground beginnings to its modern popularity.
  • They share stories about the influential figures who helped shape Jiu Jitsu, such as Eddie Bravo and Renzo Gracie.
  • The conversation emphasizes the importance of both the offensive and defensive aspects of Jiu Jitsu in MMA.

4. The Dangers of Weight Cutting:

  • The dangers of severe weight cutting in MMA are discussed, particularly in the context of no longer allowing IV rehydration.
  • The panelists express concern about fighters pushing their bodies to extreme limits and the potential health consequences.
  • They highlight the impact of dehydration on a fighter’s chin and overall performance.
  • The discussion raises questions about whether more weight classes should be added to MMA to reduce the need for extreme weight cuts.

5. The Unpredictability of MMA:

  • The conversation emphasizes the unpredictable nature of MMA, where a seemingly dominant fighter can be defeated by a less-favored opponent.
  • The panelists discuss the various factors that can contribute to an upset, such as a fighter’s mental state, injuries, and the unpredictable nature of combat sports.
  • They highlight the importance of staying in the moment and being prepared for anything in a fight.
  • The unpredictable nature of MMA keeps fans on the edge of their seats and makes every fight exciting.

6. The Impact of USADA:

  • The panelists discuss the impact of USADA’s implementation on the sport of MMA.
  • They highlight the benefits of having a comprehensive testing protocol in place to ensure fairness and protect athletes’ health.
  • They acknowledge the controversy surrounding USADA’s implementation, but ultimately believe that it has made MMA a more legitimate sport.
  • The conversation suggests that USADA has been a positive force in MMA.

7. The Importance of Balance in Life:

  • The panelists discuss the importance of balance in life, particularly after a career in MMA.
  • They share their experiences of transitioning from fighting to coaching, podcasting, and other pursuits.
  • They emphasize the need to find activities that bring joy and fulfillment outside of combat sports.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of having a healthy balance between work, family, and personal hobbies.

8. The Role of Coaches:

  • The panelists discuss the importance of coaches in MMA, emphasizing their role in guiding fighters’ development, both physically and mentally.
  • They share stories about their experiences as coaches, highlighting the challenges and rewards of working with athletes.
  • The conversation underscores the impact that coaches can have on fighters’ careers, both in terms of success and well-being.
  • The importance of finding the right coach for a fighter’s individual needs is highlighted.

9. The Importance of Mental Toughness:

  • The podcast discusses the importance of mental toughness in MMA, highlighting the challenges fighters face both inside and outside the cage.
  • The panelists share their experiences with overcoming adversity and maintaining a positive mindset despite setbacks.
  • They emphasize the need to develop a strong mental game to handle the pressures of competition and the public scrutiny that comes with being a professional fighter.
  • The importance of having a supportive team and a strong support system is also emphasized.

10. The Importance of Humility:

  • The panelists discuss the importance of humility in MMA, highlighting the need to remain grounded despite success.
  • They share stories about fighters who have been humbled by losses or injuries.
  • The conversation emphasizes the importance of respecting opponents and acknowledging their strengths.
  • The importance of remaining humble in the face of success is highlighted.

11. The Impact of Social Media:

  • The panelists discuss the impact of social media on MMA, particularly the prevalence of negativity and online harassment.
  • They share their personal experiences with social media and the challenges of navigating the online world.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of developing a thick skin and not taking negative comments personally.
  • The importance of using social media positively and promoting a healthy online community is emphasized.

12. The Importance of Finding Your Tribe:

  • The podcast emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with positive influences and building a supportive community.
  • The panelists share their experiences with finding their tribe in the MMA world and the importance of having close-knit friendships.
  • The conversation highlights the need for support and encouragement, particularly in the face of challenges.
  • The importance of surrounding yourself with people who lift you up and challenge you to be your best is highlighted.

13. The Importance of Health and Well-being:

  • The podcast discusses the importance of health and well-being for MMA fighters, particularly the need for proper nutrition, rest, and recovery.
  • The panelists share their experiences with managing their health, both during their fighting careers and in retirement.
  • They highlight the importance of taking care of their bodies and minds to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
  • The conversation suggests that MMA fighters need to prioritize their health and well-being to have long and successful careers.

14. The Importance of Mental Health:

  • The podcast touches on the importance of mental health for MMA fighters, highlighting the challenges they face in managing stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • The panelists share their experiences with mental health challenges and the importance of seeking help when needed.
  • The conversation destigmatizes mental health issues and encourages fighters to prioritize their mental well-being.
  • The importance of seeking professional help for mental health issues is highlighted.

15. The Importance of Giving Back:

  • The podcast discusses the importance of giving back to the MMA community and inspiring the next generation of fighters.
  • The panelists share their experiences with coaching and mentoring young athletes.
  • They emphasize the need to share their knowledge and experience to help others achieve their goals.
  • The importance of giving back to the sport that has given them so much is highlighted.

16. The Importance of Having Fun:

  • The podcast highlights the importance of having fun in MMA and not taking things too seriously.
  • The panelists share their experiences with enjoying the camaraderie of the sport and the thrill of competition.
  • They emphasize the need to find joy in the journey and not let the pressure of success overshadow the love of the sport.
  • The importance of having fun and enjoying the process is highlighted.

17. The Future of MMA:

  • The podcast touches on the future of MMA, discussing the growing popularity of the sport and the potential for further innovation.
  • The panelists express their excitement for the future of MMA and their belief that the sport will continue to evolve and grow.
  • The conversation suggests that MMA has a bright future ahead of it.
  • The impact of technology and new training methods on the future of MMA is discussed.

18. The Importance of Integrity:

  • The podcast discusses the importance of integrity in MMA and the need for athletes to be honest and accountable for their actions.
  • The panelists share their opinions on the role of integrity in sports and the importance of setting a good example for younger athletes.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of sportsmanship and fair play, particularly in the context of a sport that can be brutal and unforgiving.
  • The importance of being a role model for young people and representing the sport with honesty and integrity is highlighted.

19. The Importance of Self-Awareness:

  • The podcast discusses the importance of self-awareness for MMA fighters, particularly the need to understand their strengths and weaknesses to maximize their potential.
  • The panelists share their experiences with self-reflection and the importance of learning from their mistakes.
  • The conversation emphasizes the need to be honest with themselves and seek feedback from others to improve their performance.
  • The importance of being self-aware and constantly striving to improve is highlighted.

20. The Importance of Passion:

  • The podcast emphasizes the importance of passion in MMA, highlighting the need to love the sport and be dedicated to pursuing your dreams.
  • The panelists share their experiences with the passion they have for MMA and the driving force that keeps them involved in the sport.
  • The conversation suggests that passion is essential for success in MMA and that fighters need to be truly committed to the sport to achieve their goals.
  • The impact of passion on a fighter’s mental and physical performance is discussed.

5 Memorable Quotes:

  • “You always felt like it was going to be over any second.” – Matt Serra reflects on the precariousness of the early UFC, highlighting the sport’s uncertainty.
  • “It’s upsetting to me when I see people all fucked up and we’re sitting there hanging out having a guitar.” – Matt Serra expresses his concern for fighters who have suffered long-term health consequences from the sport.
  • “You had to be all in.” – Matt Serra emphasizes the dedication and commitment required to succeed in MMA, especially in the early days.
  • “If he ever, it’s in my contract that if he leaves, I leave.” – Matt Serra reveals his loyalty to Dana White, highlighting the bond they share and their shared passion for the sport.
  • “You just want to hang around good people and just chill out.” – Din Thomas emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with positive influences, particularly after a demanding career in MMA.


 

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