JRE Fight Companion - February 22, 2020

22-Feb-20

This podcast serves as a live commentary during a UFC fight night, with Joe Rogan joined by Eddie Bravo, Bryan Callen, and Brendan Schaub. The episode is filled with insights and discussions about the fighters, their strategies, and the dynamics of the sport. Provocative topics include political discussions, conspiracy theories, and deep dives into the psychology and training methods of various fighters.

1. **Trump Tower and Political Discourse:**

The conversation begins with a lighthearted discussion about staying at Trump Tower, quickly shifting to a debate about political affiliations and the impact of Trump’s presidency on business ventures.
The discussion touches upon the potential for political bias when choosing hotels, and the potential impact of Trump’s presidency on hotel attendance.
They discuss the Trump Tower in Vancouver, suggesting that there’s a disconnect between American political sentiment and the public perception in Canada.
The discussion touches on the politicization of various business ventures, such as hotels, and the perception of those ventures as political statements.

2. **Hypnosis and the Psychology of Mike Tyson:**

The group engages in a fascinating discussion about the potential role of hypnosis in Mike Tyson’s early boxing career, highlighting the influence of his trainer, Cus D’Amato.
They delve into Tyson’s troubled childhood and how it might have contributed to his early success and later struggles, highlighting the impact of environment on individual development.
The discussion explores the potential influence of hypnosis on Tyson’s fighting style and mental state, examining how it could have contributed to his aggressive and intimidating persona.
They raise questions about the ethical implications of using hypnosis in sports, particularly on young athletes, and its potential for manipulation.

3. **UFC Weight Divisions and the Appeal of Heavyweight Fights:**

The discussion shifts towards the various weight divisions in UFC, and the difficulties of garnering mainstream interest for lighter weight classes, even with incredibly skilled fighters like Demetrious Johnson.
They argue that the heavyweight division, due to its physicality and potential for knockout power, remains the most popular and exciting, driving the overall appeal of the sport.
The conversation explores the potential benefits and drawbacks of moving up in weight class, with specific examples of fighters like John Jones, who is contemplating a move to heavyweight.
They touch upon the impact of weight cutting on fighters’ performance and health, highlighting the pressures and sacrifices involved in reaching specific weight classes.

4. **The Controversial World of Boxing Promoters:**

The conversation shifts to boxing, specifically addressing the dominance of promoters and their influence on match-ups, which often results in long-awaited fights not happening.
They lament the lack of transparency in boxing promotion, where financial motivations often trump the desire to see the best fighters compete against each other.
They contrast the UFC’s model, where fighters are able to compete across different organizations, with boxing’s rigid promotion system that limits competition.
The discussion explores the potential for boxing to regain its former glory if promoters were more transparent and prioritized fan interest over financial gain.

5. **The Impact of Conspiracy Theories on Public Perception:**

The conversation touches on the prevalence of conspiracy theories in the digital age, particularly surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
They question the validity of theories about the virus being created in a lab or intentionally released, contrasting these theories with the scientific consensus.
They raise concerns about the spread of misinformation through social media and the difficulty of distinguishing factual information from fabricated narratives.
The discussion highlights the importance of critical thinking and relying on credible sources of information, especially during times of crisis and uncertainty.

6. **The Importance of Mentorship and Finding the Right Training Environment:**

The group explores the importance of finding the right training environment for fighters, emphasizing the role of mentorship and coaching in maximizing potential.
They discuss the dynamics of different gyms, like Greg Jackson’s, which is known for its high-level coaches and successful fighters.
They analyze the specific needs of fighters like Aaron Pico, who had to shift his training focus from striking to grappling, highlighting the importance of adaptability in combat sports.
The conversation highlights the role of coaches in guiding fighters beyond their physical skills, focusing on mental preparation and overcoming the challenges of combat sports.

7. **The Psychology of Competition and the Importance of Mental Toughness:**

The discussion delves into the mental aspects of fighting, highlighting the importance of mental resilience and overcoming self-doubt in the face of adversity.
They explore the psychological impact of facing tough opponents, like Khabib Nurmagomedov, and the preparation required to handle the pressure and uncertainty of combat sports.
They analyze the different approaches to fighting, contrasting the aggressive style of fighters like Tony Ferguson with the more calculated approach of fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between aggression and strategy, and the mental strength required to handle the physical and emotional demands of high-level competition.

8. **The Rise of Chinese Fighters and the Future of Women’s MMA:**

The episode highlights the emergence of Chinese fighters, particularly in women’s MMA, like Zhang Weili, who is the reigning strawweight champion.
They discuss the impressive strength and conditioning routines of these fighters, often incorporating unorthodox techniques and rigorous training regimens.
They speculate on the future of women’s MMA, predicting that Chinese fighters are poised to make a significant impact on the sport.
The conversation explores the global nature of MMA, and the growing influence of fighters from various countries on the sport’s landscape.

9. **The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu and its Application in MMA:**

The conversation explores the intricate nuances of jiu-jitsu, specifically the “truck” and “twister” submissions, highlighting the strategic depth of the art form.
They discuss the importance of understanding not just the mechanics of submissions, but also the subtle details and timing required to execute them successfully.
They analyze the evolution of jiu-jitsu within MMA, highlighting how fighters like Tony Ferguson have incorporated advanced techniques to create a unique and unpredictable fighting style.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of mastering jiu-jitsu and its application in MMA, not just for grappling, but also for creating strategic advantages in stand-up exchanges.

10. **The Importance of a Comprehensive Scoring System in MMA:**

The conversation touches upon the limitations of the current scoring system in MMA, where control, damage, and dominance are often difficult to quantify accurately.
They discuss the potential for subjective bias among judges, and how different interpretations of the scoring criteria can lead to controversial decisions.
They argue for a more comprehensive scoring system that takes into account a broader range of factors, like striking accuracy, takedown attempts, and submission attempts.
They emphasize the need for greater consistency and transparency in judging, to ensure that the best fighter is awarded the victory.

11. **The Importance of Finding the Right Training Partners and Coaches:**

The discussion highlights the importance of finding the right training partners and coaches, who can push fighters to their limits and help them improve their skills.
They discuss the importance of sparring with diverse opponents, who can challenge fighters in different ways and expose weaknesses that need to be addressed.
They emphasize the need for coaches who are not only skilled in their respective disciplines, but also able to adapt their training methods to meet the individual needs of their fighters.
They analyze the importance of communication and trust between fighters and their coaches, emphasizing the role of mentorship in building successful fighters.

12. **The Dynamics of Gym Culture and the Importance of Loyalty:**

The episode touches on the dynamics of gym culture, particularly the potential for jealousy and competition among fighters who are training alongside each other.
They discuss the importance of loyalty and mutual respect within gyms, highlighting the role of team unity in achieving success.
They analyze the pressure on coaches to manage egos and create a positive and supportive training environment, even when dealing with highly competitive fighters.
They highlight the importance of finding a gym that aligns with an individual’s values and goals, emphasizing the impact of environment on individual development and success.

13. **The Importance of Physical Conditioning and Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle:**

The conversation delves into the importance of physical conditioning for fighters, highlighting the role of strength training, cardio, and recovery in maximizing performance.
They discuss the benefits of incorporating different types of training, like clubbells, hanging, and various exercises that target specific muscle groups.
They emphasize the impact of diet and nutrition on fighters’ performance and recovery, highlighting the importance of fueling the body with the right nutrients.
The conversation explores the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while traveling and competing at the highest level, highlighting the discipline required to remain at the top of the sport.

14. **The Impact of Social Media and the Culture of “Cancel Culture”:**

The conversation touches on the prevalence of “cancel culture” on social media, where individuals are often subject to criticism and public shaming for their actions.
They discuss the potential for social media to amplify negative narratives and silence dissenting opinions, raising concerns about the implications for free speech and open dialogue.
They analyze the impact of social media on fighters’ reputations and careers, highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive image and avoiding controversial statements.
The conversation explores the complexities of navigating social media in the age of instant judgment, and the importance of fostering a culture of understanding and forgiveness.

15. **The Importance of Mental Preparation and the Power of Belief:**

The episode emphasizes the importance of mental preparation in fighting, highlighting the role of self-belief and positive visualization in achieving success.
They discuss the importance of developing a strong mental game, and overcoming the negative thoughts and doubts that can arise during training and competition.
They analyze the importance of visualizing success and developing a mindset that embraces challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth.
The conversation explores the power of belief and how it can influence performance, highlighting the importance of positive thinking and self-confidence in achieving goals.

16. **The Importance of Finding the Right Balance Between Aggression and Strategy:**

The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding the right balance between aggression and strategy in fighting, highlighting the need to adapt to the individual styles of opponents.
They discuss the benefits of incorporating a diverse range of techniques and fighting styles, to create a more unpredictable and difficult opponent for opponents to face.
They analyze the importance of being able to switch between aggressive and defensive tactics, based on the situation and the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of constant learning and improvement, and the need to stay ahead of the curve in a constantly evolving sport.

17. **The Importance of Embracing Challenges and Stepping Outside of Comfort Zones:**

The conversation highlights the importance of embracing challenges and stepping outside of comfort zones, particularly for fighters who are seeking to advance their careers.
They discuss the benefits of taking on tough opponents, even if it means risking a loss, as a way to prove oneself and gain valuable experience.
They analyze the importance of being willing to take risks and push boundaries, in order to achieve greatness in combat sports.
The conversation emphasizes the need for fighters to constantly challenge themselves, and not be afraid to step into the unknown.

18. **The Importance of Community and the Power of Camaraderie in Combat Sports:**

The episode highlights the importance of community and camaraderie in combat sports, emphasizing the role of shared experiences and support networks in building successful fighters.
They discuss the importance of finding a gym where fighters feel supported and encouraged, and where they can learn from each other and build strong relationships.
They analyze the importance of team unity and the role of coaches in fostering a positive and supportive environment, even when dealing with highly competitive fighters.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding a sense of belonging and community in a sport that is often characterized by individual competition.

19. **The Importance of Recognizing and Respecting the Skills of Opponents:**

The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the skills of opponents, even when facing fighters who are perceived as weaker or less experienced.
They discuss the dangers of underestimating opponents, and the need to approach every fight with a sense of respect and caution.
They analyze the importance of studying opponents’ fighting styles and developing strategies to counter their strengths and exploit their weaknesses.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of humility and respect in combat sports, where a single mistake can have a devastating impact on the outcome of a fight.

20. **The Importance of Staying True to One’s Fighting Style and Embracing Individuality:**

The conversation emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s fighting style and embracing individuality, highlighting the need to develop unique and effective strategies that are not easily countered.
They discuss the dangers of trying to imitate other fighters and the importance of finding what works best for each individual, based on their strengths, weaknesses, and physical attributes.
They analyze the importance of developing a distinctive fighting style that is both effective and exciting for fans to watch, and that allows fighters to stand out in a crowded field.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing uniqueness and individuality in a sport that is often driven by comparisons and rankings.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“It’s a nice hotel, dude. If Hillary, if the Clintons had a hotel, would you mind staying there? Yeah, I don’t care. But Bill, you don’t care about that? I don’t care about any of that. The hotel’s a hotel. It’s a good deal.” – Joe Rogan, on the politicization of hotels.
“He has 41 knockouts and 42 wins. Who the fuck has that? He’s got 42 wins, one draw, 41 KO’s. That’s crazy.” – Brendan Schaub, on Deontay Wilder’s impressive knockout record.
“When she first started fighting in the UFC, she was doing martial arts training period for four years. I was like, what? That’s nothing. And but she was already 18 and Oh in Muay Thai. How crazy is that?” – Joe Rogan, on Angela Hill’s rapid rise in MMA.
“He’s got all these guys and trying to manage everyone’s ego. And MMA fighters, they’re just a different animal. And you got Mike Smith sitting over here, guys, I’m on the team too. Yeah, yeah, we know. We know, dude. I’m Mike Smith, the real guy.” – Bryan Callen, on the dynamics of Greg Jackson’s gym.
“The only thing I want, the only thing I want is for those guys to get together in April. Why’s all Tony’s jump over tires? Oh, it’s old. Oh, is that old? Oh, thank God. Yeah, man, there’s this is awesome Tony meme where it says where they’re showing this guy from like it’s like I in the middle of a canyon in some like forest and there is like a tight He’s like walking a tight rope. It’s like some dude is walking a tight rope with like a balancing pole. You know, it’s something like Tony when Tony trains or something.” – Joe Rogan, on the anticipation for a Tony Ferguson vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov fight.