8-May-20
This podcast features Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub discussing upcoming UFC fights, touching upon various aspects of the sport, and venturing into provocative conversations on current events like COVID-19. The conversation reveals deep underlying themes of skepticism, the value of independent thought, and the ever-evolving nature of sports and technology.
Topics
UFC Fight Discussion
1. **Tony Ferguson vs. Justin Gaethje**: Rogan and Schaub analyze the upcoming fight between Ferguson and Gaethje, highlighting their contrasting fighting styles and potential outcomes.
– The fight is seen as a war, with both fighters known for their aggressive and relentless approach.
– Gaethje’s power and Ferguson’s relentless pressure make it a difficult fight to predict.
– Ferguson’s submission skills pose a threat to Gaethje, who lacks extensive grappling experience.
– The fight is anticipated to be a highly entertaining spectacle, with both fighters known for their unpredictable and exciting style.
2. **Kamaru Usman vs. Jorge Masvidal**: Rogan and Schaub discuss potential opponents for Usman, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, with Masvidal emerging as a top contender.
– Masvidal’s popularity and recent wins, including a knockout against Nate Diaz, make him a compelling opponent for Usman.
– The fight is fueled by the rivalry between Masvidal and Usman’s teammate, Colby Covington, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
– Usman’s dominance in the welterweight division makes the fight a challenge for Masvidal, but his unpredictable and exciting style makes for a potentially captivating contest.
– The potential for a rematch with Colby Covington, who Usman defeated decisively, adds another layer of intrigue.
3. **Francis Ngannou vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik**: Rogan and Schaub dissect the heavyweight bout, acknowledging Ngannou’s devastating power and Rozenstruik’s striking prowess.
– Ngannou’s knockout power makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the heavyweight division.
– Rozenstruik, known for his own knockout power and striking skills, presents a formidable challenge for Ngannou.
– The fight is a potential title eliminator, with the winner likely to contend for the heavyweight championship.
– Ngannou’s size and athleticism are significant advantages, but Rozenstruik’s striking precision could lead to an upset.
4. **Other UFC Fights**: Rogan and Schaub highlight several other notable fights on the UFC card, showcasing their diverse range of skill sets and potential for exciting action.
– The card features fights across multiple weight classes, showcasing a wide variety of styles and matchups.
– The fights are anticipated to be highly competitive, with several potential upsets on the horizon.
– The card provides an opportunity for fighters to make a statement and potentially climb the ranks within their respective divisions.
– The UFC’s stacked lineup reflects the depth and talent within the organization.
COVID-19 Discussion
5. **COVID-19 Death Rate and Asymptomatic Cases**: Rogan and Schaub discuss the death rate of COVID-19, questioning the accuracy of reported figures and emphasizing the prevalence of asymptomatic cases.
– Rogan cites Elon Musk’s perspective on the death rate, suggesting that it is significantly lower than initially projected.
– They discuss the widespread prevalence of asymptomatic cases, highlighting that many individuals may be infected without exhibiting symptoms.
– Rogan and Schaub express concern over potential overcounting of deaths due to COVID-19, arguing that individuals with preexisting conditions who die while testing positive may not necessarily have COVID-19 as the primary cause of death.
– The discussion underscores the importance of accurate data collection and analysis for informed decision-making regarding the pandemic.
6. **Impact of COVID-19 on the Economy**: Rogan and Schaub discuss the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing concerns over the prolonged shutdown and its effect on small businesses and individuals.
– Rogan and Schaub debate the necessity of the lockdown, suggesting that a shorter, more focused period of quarantine might have been more effective.
– They highlight the financial hardship experienced by many individuals and businesses due to the shutdown, emphasizing the need to restart the economy.
– Rogan advocates for a cautious approach, urging adherence to social distancing guidelines and the use of masks.
– The discussion reflects a growing sentiment of frustration with the extended shutdown and its consequences.
7. **COVID-19 and Public Behavior**: Rogan and Schaub discuss the public’s response to COVID-19, expressing concerns over excessive fear and paranoia.
– Rogan and Schaub express frustration over the perceived overreaction to COVID-19, particularly in situations where the risk of transmission is minimal.
– They recount instances of people wearing masks while alone on hiking trails or avoiding contact with others in low-risk environments, highlighting a sense of excessive caution.
– The discussion touches upon the potential for social distancing and mask-wearing to become a social norm, even after the pandemic subsides.
– Rogan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective, not allowing fear to dictate all aspects of daily life.
8. **COVID-19 and the Media**: Rogan and Schaub discuss the role of the media in shaping public perception of COVID-19, criticizing the focus on negative news and sensationalism.
– Rogan criticizes the media’s tendency to focus on negative news and scare tactics, arguing that it creates undue panic and anxiety.
– They highlight the media’s responsibility to present balanced and accurate information, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of the pandemic.
– Rogan and Schaub point to the media’s role in perpetuating a narrative of fear, arguing that it drives clicks and profits.
– The discussion underscores the importance of media literacy and critical thinking in navigating the flood of information surrounding the pandemic.
Personal Experiences and Observations
9. **Rattlesnake Encounters**: Schaub recounts his frequent encounters with rattlesnakes in his neighborhood, sharing his experiences and emphasizing their potential danger.
– Schaub shares graphic descriptions of his close encounters with rattlesnakes, highlighting their prevalence in his environment.
– He emphasizes the importance of caution and awareness when venturing into areas where rattlesnakes are present.
– Schaub discusses the potential consequences of a rattlesnake bite, including tissue damage and the risk of infection.
– The discussion underscores the importance of preparedness and responsible behavior when encountering dangerous wildlife.
10. **Mountain Biking**: Schaub discusses his newfound passion for mountain biking, detailing his training regimen and his plans for future adventures.
– Schaub describes his daily mountain biking routine, highlighting the physical challenges and the mental rewards.
– He emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and endurance in mountain biking.
– Schaub plans to participate in a mountain biking race in France, showcasing his determination to push his limits.
– The discussion reveals his passion for the sport and his commitment to personal growth.
11. **Homelessness in Venice**: Schaub discusses the prevalent homelessness issue in Venice, California, expressing concern for his family and the potential impact on their quality of life.
– Schaub shares his observations of the growing homeless population in Venice, California, highlighting the challenges it poses to the community.
– He discusses the potential risks associated with living in an area with a high homeless population, particularly for his young son.
– Schaub’s comments reflect a growing concern among residents of Los Angeles regarding the city’s homelessness crisis.
– The discussion underscores the need for effective solutions to address the complex issue of homelessness.
12. **Political Views**: Rogan and Schaub discuss their political views, particularly in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and the response from various governors.
– Rogan and Schaub express skepticism towards the prolonged lockdown measures imposed by certain governors, arguing that they are unnecessary and harmful to the economy.
– They highlight the importance of individual liberty and the right to make personal choices regarding health and safety.
– Rogan and Schaub express concern over the potential political motivations behind the lockdown, suggesting that it might be used to influence the upcoming election.
– The discussion reflects a broader societal debate regarding the balance between public health and individual freedom.
13. **The 2020 Election**: Rogan and Schaub discuss the upcoming presidential election, sharing their thoughts on the candidates and the political climate.
– Rogan and Schaub express frustration with the current political landscape, highlighting the increasingly divisive nature of political discourse.
– They criticize the actions of both major political parties, arguing that they have become increasingly polarized and out of touch with the needs of ordinary citizens.
– Rogan and Schaub express concerns over the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the election, suggesting that it could further polarize the electorate.
– The discussion reflects a growing sense of disillusionment with the current state of American politics.
14. **Elon Musk and Neuralink**: Rogan and Schaub delve into Elon Musk’s groundbreaking work with Neuralink, discussing its potential benefits and the ethical considerations.
– Rogan shares his recent interview with Musk, gaining insight into Neuralink’s technology and its potential to revolutionize medicine and human capabilities.
– They discuss the potential for Neuralink to treat neurological conditions, such as spinal cord injuries and brain damage.
– Rogan and Schaub debate the ethical implications of Neuralink, questioning the potential for misuse and societal implications.
– The discussion highlights the transformative potential of Musk’s work and the crucial need for ethical considerations in the development and deployment of such advanced technologies.
15. **The Importance of Independent Thought**: Rogan and Schaub emphasize the importance of independent thought and skepticism in navigating the world, especially in the age of misinformation.
– Rogan and Schaub encourage their listeners to be critical consumers of information, questioning narratives and seeking out diverse perspectives.
– They highlight the need to be skeptical of authority figures and to rely on their own judgment when forming opinions.
– Rogan and Schaub advocate for open dialogue and intellectual curiosity, emphasizing the value of healthy debate.
– The discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining an independent mindset and avoiding blind acceptance of information.
16. **The Future of Comedy**: Rogan and Schaub speculate on the future of comedy in a post-COVID-19 world, considering the impact of the lockdown on the creative process and the potential for new material.
– Rogan and Schaub discuss the challenges of staying creative during the lockdown, acknowledging the difficulty of generating new material in a restricted environment.
– They anticipate a potential surge in comedy shows and stand-up performances once restrictions are lifted, suggesting a renewed appreciation for live entertainment.
– Rogan and Schaub predict that comedy will adapt to the new reality, incorporating themes and experiences related to the pandemic into routines.
– The discussion underscores the resilience of comedy and its ability to reflect and comment on the changing times.
Memorable Quotes
“If you got bit by a shark and got and died and you had COVID, they would count it as a COVID death.” – Elon Musk’s humorous, yet thought-provoking, observation on potential COVID-19 death overcounting.
“People are so scared. They’re so scared of everything. It’s a shame.” – Rogan expresses frustration over the perceived overreaction to COVID-19, highlighting the detrimental impact of fear.
“They’re not saying, ‘Hey, keep six feet apart from each other and use social distancing guidelines and be safe.’ They’re saying, ‘Here’s the things you can do.’ ” – Rogan criticizes the condescending nature of lockdown restrictions, arguing for a more nuanced approach to public health guidelines.
“I think his brain is so different than our brains. When you’re sitting there talking to him, I think he’s trying to talk to me the way I talk to a three-year-old.” – Schaub’s humorous observation on Elon Musk’s unique way of communicating, highlighting his intellectual prowess.
“You can’t just have a popularity contest. You need a large group of people, not one person, and they need to be… They need to have exhibited the fact they’re objective and reasonable and ethical and moral.” – Rogan underscores the importance of diverse and qualified leadership, emphasizing the need for objective decision-making, especially in times of crisis.