JRE MMA Show #91 with Radio Rahim

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and boxing reporter Radio Rahim, exploring the world of boxing and the captivating narratives that surround it. From the viral “to this day” moment with Deontay Wilder to the cultural significance of heavyweight bouts, the conversation delves into the grit, passion, and complexities of the sport.

Major Topics and 4-Point Summaries:

1. Joe Rogan’s Mug Shot Collection:

   • Rogan’s fascination with mug shots of iconic rock and roll figures.
   • He believes that breaking societal norms is a common thread among legends, and that these mug shots represent moments of societal resistance.
   • He argues that these images are iconic because they capture moments when society attempted to control these rebellious figures.
   • The collection acts as a reminder of the importance of pushing boundaries and defying expectations in achieving greatness.

2. The “To This Day” Deontay Wilder Interview:

   • The iconic interview between Wilder and Rahim, where Wilder became enraged after Rahim questioned his statement about his people being fighters for 400 years.
   • Rahim’s perspective on the incident: he was trying to get Wilder to expand on his statement for a global audience who may not understand the context of his words.
   • The moment became viral, launching Wilder’s “to this day” brand and generating significant attention for the upcoming fight.
   • The controversy surrounding the interview sparked debates about race, identity, and the role of the media in combat sports.

3. The Cultural Context of Combat Sports:

   • Rahim highlights the cultural significance of combat sports, particularly in Ireland and England, where travelers and gypsies have a long history of fighting.
   • He emphasizes how these cultural traditions contribute to the fighters’ styles and approaches to the sport.
   • He draws a parallel between the underclass experience in England and the black experience in America, emphasizing the historical struggles that shape these fighters.
   • The discussion explores the unique cultural narratives embedded within combat sports, showcasing how these narratives influence the way fights are perceived and understood.

4. The Role of the Reporter in Combat Sports:

   • Rahim emphasizes the importance of providing context and depth to interviews, going beyond superficial questions and seeking genuine insights from fighters.
   • He acknowledges the dangers of online criticism and the need to navigate the vitriol of comment sections, but emphasizes the importance of staying true to his journalistic integrity.
   • He believes that reporters have a responsibility to not only inform the audience but also to give fighters a platform to share their perspectives and experiences.
   • Rahim’s commitment to delving into the complexities of fighters’ lives and backgrounds sets him apart from other boxing reporters, allowing him to offer a unique and insightful perspective.

5. The Evolution of Boxing and MMA:

   • Rahim believes that the heavyweight division in boxing is currently at its most exciting and turbulent, with a resurgence of talent and unpredictability.
   • He discusses the impact of social media and the internet on the way combat sports are consumed and analyzed, providing a platform for journalists and fans to engage in deeper conversations about the sport.
   • He highlights the changing landscape of combat sports, noting the rise of MMA and its impact on the traditional boxing world, leading to crossover fights and potential collaborations.
   • Rahim’s experience as a journalist and martial artist provides him with a unique perspective on the evolution of both boxing and MMA, enabling him to analyze the current trends and future possibilities.

6. The Importance of Discipline and Commitment:

   • Rahim emphasizes the immense dedication and commitment required to reach the top in combat sports, highlighting the rigorous training regimens and the mental fortitude needed to overcome adversity.
   • He discusses the physical and mental toll that sparring takes on fighters, highlighting the risks involved and the dedication required to push through the pain and persevere.
   • Rahim’s own journey as a reporter and martial artist demonstrates the importance of discipline and commitment in achieving success in any field, highlighting the sacrifices and challenges that must be overcome.
   • The conversation explores the themes of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering commitment that defines the lives of top-level combat athletes.

7. The Power of Storytelling in Combat Sports:

   • Rahim believes that each fight has a unique narrative and a cultural context that adds depth and complexity to the sport.
   • He highlights the importance of understanding the fighters’ backgrounds, motivations, and personal struggles, as these factors contribute to their performances and the way they are perceived.
   • He acknowledges the allure of spectacle and hype in combat sports, but emphasizes the importance of appreciating the artistry, skill, and dedication behind the fights.
   • Rahim’s deep understanding of boxing and MMA allows him to unravel the stories that lie beneath the surface of the fights, enriching the audience’s experience and fostering a deeper appreciation for the sport.

8. The Future of Combat Sports:

   • Rahim anticipates the return of Manny Pacquiao, highlighting his dominance and potential for future fights, including a possible clash with Terence Crawford.
   • He discusses the growing influence of the UFC in the boxing world, including Dana White’s potential involvement in promoting boxing events and potentially orchestrating crossover fights.
   • He acknowledges the challenges of navigating the complex world of boxing promotions and the need to find a balance between spectacle and genuine competition.
   • The conversation ponders the future of both boxing and MMA, exploring potential collaborations, rivalries, and the ever-evolving nature of these dynamic sports.

9. The Benefits of Floatation Therapy:

   • Rogan and Rahim discuss the benefits of floatation therapy, promoting its therapeutic and relaxing qualities.
   • Rahim emphasizes the importance of finding ways to de-stress and unwind, especially in the demanding world of combat sports.
   • The conversation highlights the growing popularity of floatation therapy and its potential to improve both physical and mental well-being.
   • The discussion offers a glimpse into the diverse ways that individuals seek to achieve balance and relaxation in their lives, especially in physically and mentally demanding professions.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s almost like it’s illegal to be exceptional. You have to fucking break the law to make the to make the imprint on this society that you want to make.” – Joe Rogan
• “He says, ‘Don’t try to bait. You know what I’m talking about when I say these things.’ What I’m like, ‘Well, yeah, I do. Can you tell them what you’re talking about?'” – Radio Rahim
• “So when he’s screaming at you, what is going through your mind when he’s hitting you with is it ‘to this day’ or ’till this day?’ Because there is a debate on that.” – Joe Rogan
• “I think that it was exactly the right thing at the right time. I couldn’t have predicted in a million years it would have went that way but that’s the way it was supposed to go.” – Radio Rahim
• “It’s not the fights that destroy you, it’s the gym that destroys you. It’s the sparring.” – Boxer (name not specified)