JRE MMA Show #88 with Frankie Edgar

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and former UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar. The conversation touches on Edgar’s upcoming fight, weight cutting, memories of past battles, the evolution of MMA, and reflections on the mental and physical demands of the sport.

1. Edgar’s Weight Cut to Featherweight:
   • Edgar reveals he’s preparing to fight at 135 pounds, a significant weight cut from his usual 155 pound fighting weight.
   • The conversation explores the challenges and strategies involved in such a drastic weight cut, including the mental and physical strain.
   • Edgar’s experience cutting weight for previous fights, including the ease of his most recent cut, is highlighted.
   • The potential impact of this weight cut on his fighting style and performance is discussed.
2. Recollection of Fights and Referee Stoppages:
   • Edgar shares his experiences with getting rocked in fights, including fights he doesn’t fully remember due to the intensity of the action.
   • The conversation touches on the subjective nature of referee stoppages and the challenges of determining when a fighter is truly done.
   • Edgar’s perspective on referee stoppages, particularly those that occurred early, is discussed. He expresses that he would rather fight through adversity than be stopped unnecessarily.
   • The potential long-term effects of receiving repeated blows and the implications for fighter safety are explored.
3. The Physical Freakishness of Fighters:
   • Rogan and Edgar discuss the extraordinary physical capabilities of various fighters, comparing their strength, power, and athleticism.
   • Fighters like Brock Lesnar, Alistair Overeem, and Francis Ngannou are highlighted for their remarkable physical attributes and the ways in which they utilize their strength and power in the ring.
   • The conversation explores the debate about natural vs. enhanced athleticism and the influence of training regimes.
   • The evolution of training methods and the increased sophistication of fighters are discussed.
4. Edgar’s Training Regimen and Preparation:
   • Edgar details his current training routine, which includes sparring, wrestling, and strength and conditioning. He explains how his training has evolved as he’s aged.
   • Edgar describes the benefits of sparring with high-level training partners, emphasizing the need for skilled and experienced opponents.
   • The importance of a strong coaching team and the role of different perspectives in training are highlighted.
   • The prevalence of elite fighters traveling to renowned camps like ATT and AKA for training is discussed, highlighting the shared commitment to seeking the best possible instruction.
5. The Role of the “Gi” in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA:
   • Edgar and Rogan discuss the ongoing debate about the relevance of “Gi” training in MMA. “Gi” training, which involves grappling with a uniform, is a traditional Jiu-Jitsu practice.
   • Edgar shares his perspective on “Gi” training and its benefits for fighters, particularly those who primarily rely on wrestling and athleticism.
   • The conversation explores the potential drawbacks of “Gi” training, including the risk of becoming overly reliant on grips and collars, which are not permitted in MMA.
   • The conversation highlights the evolving perspective on “Gi” training, with some coaches and fighters now emphasizing the importance of focusing on no-Gi techniques.
6. The Emotional Toll of Fighting and Losses:
   • Edgar shares his experience with the emotional impact of fighting and the difficulty of dealing with losses.
   • The conversation explores the psychological strength required to bounce back from defeats and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
   • Edgar reflects on the emotional toll of losses, particularly those that occurred on short notice or when he felt like he was not able to fully showcase his abilities.
   • The conversation highlights the importance of having a supportive team and the challenges of balancing the demands of fighting with personal life.
7. The UFC’s Potential Weight Class Changes:
   • Edgar advocates for the UFC to reorganize its weight classes, adding divisions at 10-pound intervals.
   • The conversation explores the rationale behind this suggestion, including the large weight gaps in the existing divisions and the challenges fighters face when cutting weight.
   • Edgar believes that more weight classes would allow fighters to compete at their natural weight, promoting better matchups and enhancing fighter safety.
   • The potential impact of these changes on the UFC’s matchmaking and the overall landscape of the sport is discussed.
8. Edgar’s Future Plans and Retirement:
   • Edgar discusses his future plans for fighting, acknowledging that he is near the end of his contract.
   • The conversation explores his desire to finish his career in the UFC, although he is open to offers from other organizations.
   • Edgar reflects on his legacy and the impact he has had on the sport, particularly as a pioneer of MMA coming out of New Jersey.
   • His plans for post-fighting career, including his involvement with UFC Gyms, are discussed.
9. The Power of Mindset in Training and Performance:
   • Edgar and Rogan explore the significance of mental toughness and the role it plays in fighter performance and resilience.
   • They discuss the challenges of overcoming fatigue and pushing past mental barriers during training and competition.
   • The conversation highlights the difference between being physically capable and being mentally prepared to unleash that capability.
   • Edgar and Rogan acknowledge the importance of having a strong mental game, emphasizing that the will to win is often the deciding factor in close matches.
10. The Importance of Breathing Exercises in Performance and Recovery:
    • The conversation explores the significance of breathing exercises in optimizing performance, enhancing endurance, and aiding recovery.
    • Edgar describes his experience with various breathing techniques and their impact on his training and overall well-being.
    • The conversation highlights the prevalence of breathing exercises in various training disciplines, including yoga, strength and conditioning, and even “Gi” training.
    • The potential benefits of breathing exercises for improving lung capacity, promoting relaxation, and reducing stress are discussed.
11. The Evolution of Training and Coaching:
    • The conversation explores the evolution of training methods in MMA, highlighting the increased specialization and sophistication of techniques.
    • Edgar and Rogan discuss the importance of having coaches who understand the nuances of different disciplines and who can provide tailored instruction.
    • They highlight the shift towards a more scientific approach to training, including the incorporation of specialized equipment and methodologies.
    • The conversation emphasizes the ongoing pursuit of improvement and the collaborative nature of training, with fighters constantly seeking to refine their skills and learn from experienced coaches and training partners.
12. The Impact of Injuries and Recovery Methods:
    • Edgar openly discusses his own struggles with injuries and the impact they’ve had on his career. He shares his experience with stem cell therapy, epidurals, and other recovery methods.
    • The conversation highlights the challenges of balancing the demands of training and competition with the need for proper recovery and injury management.
    • Edgar’s perspective on the evolving world of injury prevention and treatment, including the use of innovative therapies like stem cell therapy, is shared.
    • The conversation touches on the controversial role of insurance and its limited coverage for these advanced therapies, highlighting the need for more accessible and affordable options for athletes.
13. The Impact of “Gi” Training on MMA:
    • Edgar shares his perspective on the ongoing debate about the role of “Gi” training in MMA. He acknowledges that the “Gi” can provide valuable training benefits but also emphasizes the need to focus on no-Gi techniques, which are more relevant to MMA.
    • The conversation highlights the importance of training in both “Gi” and no-Gi environments to develop a well-rounded skillset.
    • Edgar’s personal experience with “Gi” training, including his preference for no-Gi techniques, is shared.
    • The conversation touches on the evolving strategies and techniques employed by elite MMA grapplers, highlighting the shift towards no-Gi dominance.
14. The “Mind Games” of Fighting and Psychological Warfare:
    • The conversation explores the psychological warfare and “mind games” that are often a part of fighting, particularly in high-profile matchups.
    • Edgar discusses the different approaches fighters take to psychological warfare, from talking trash to maintaining a calm and focused demeanor.
    • He reflects on the effectiveness of different strategies and the importance of understanding an opponent’s mental game.
    • The conversation highlights the crucial role of psychology in fighting, emphasizing that mental toughness and strategic thinking can be just as important as physical prowess.
15. The UFC’s Matchmaking and the Quest for Big Fights:
    • The conversation explores the UFC’s matchmaking process and the constant pursuit of big fights and high-profile matchups.
    • Edgar and Rogan discuss the factors that influence matchmaking decisions, including fighter rankings, fan interest, and potential financial gains.
    • They touch on the potential for controversial matchups, where fighters with conflicting styles or personalities are pitted against each other.
    • The conversation highlights the complexities of matchmaking in a sport where both performance and entertainment value are paramount.
16. The Controversial Use of Shoulder Strikes:
    • Edgar and Rogan discuss the controversial use of shoulder strikes in MMA. These strikes, which are often used in clinches, have been the subject of debate due to their potential to cause injury.
    • Edgar shares his perspective on the effectiveness of shoulder strikes and the ways in which they can be utilized strategically.
    • The conversation explores the potential dangers of shoulder strikes, particularly when used with excessive force or in reckless fashion.
    • The conversation touches on the ongoing discussion about the rules surrounding shoulder strikes and the need for clear guidelines to protect fighter safety.
17. The Importance of Respect and Reverence in MMA:
    • Edgar expresses his belief that MMA deserves greater respect and recognition for the athleticism and dedication of its fighters.
    • He critiques those who dismiss fighters’ accomplishments or downplay the intensity and danger of the sport.
    • The conversation highlights the unique challenges and sacrifices faced by MMA fighters, who risk serious injury and long-term health consequences.
    • Edgar emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the dedication and courage displayed by MMA athletes, who push themselves to the limits in pursuit of victory.
18. The Evolution of Striking Techniques:
    • Edgar and Rogan discuss the evolution of striking techniques in MMA, highlighting the ways in which fighters have incorporated new and innovative moves into their arsenals.
    • They discuss the influence of other martial arts disciplines, such as kickboxing and Muay Thai, on the development of striking techniques.
    • Edgar shares his perspective on the importance of constantly learning and adapting to new trends and techniques.
    • The conversation highlights the dynamic nature of striking in MMA, emphasizing that fighters must be versatile and adaptable to remain competitive.
19. The Prevalence of Lyme Disease:
    • The conversation delves into the prevalence of Lyme disease, particularly on the East Coast of the United States.
    • Edgar and Rogan share their personal experiences with Lyme disease, including their wives’ struggles with the condition.
    • The conversation explores the challenges of diagnosing Lyme disease, the potential for misdiagnosis, and the importance of early treatment.
    • The conversation touches on the controversial nature of Lyme disease, including the potential link to biological warfare, highlighting the ongoing mystery surrounding the condition and the need for more research.
20. The Impact of “Mindset” on Performance:
    • Edgar and Rogan explore the profound influence of mindset on fighter performance and the ways in which it can shape a fighter’s approach to training and competition.
    • The conversation highlights the importance of having a strong belief in oneself, staying focused, and maintaining a positive outlook.
    • Edgar shares his perspective on the “mind games” that fighters engage in, both intentionally and unintentionally, and the impact these mental strategies can have on the outcome of a fight.
    • The conversation emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and the need to cultivate a strong and resilient mindset to overcome the challenges of fighting.
21. The Importance of Recovery Methods:
    • Edgar discusses his experience with various recovery methods, including cryotherapy, ice baths, and saunas. He shares his views on the benefits and drawbacks of these techniques.
    • The conversation explores the importance of prioritizing recovery and the ways in which different recovery methods can aid in reducing muscle soreness, promoting relaxation, and enhancing performance.
    • Edgar emphasizes the need for a personalized approach to recovery, acknowledging that different methods work for different individuals.
    • The conversation highlights the growing emphasis on recovery in MMA and the pursuit of optimal health and longevity for athletes.
22. The Diverse Approaches to Strength and Conditioning:
    • Edgar and Rogan discuss the diverse approaches to strength and conditioning in MMA, highlighting the different philosophies and methodologies employed by coaches and fighters.
    • The conversation explores the contrasting views on the importance of strength training versus endurance training and the ways in which these approaches can impact fighter performance.
    • Edgar shares his preference for a balanced approach that incorporates both strength and endurance training, prioritizing functional strength and overall conditioning.
    • The conversation highlights the evolving understanding of strength and conditioning in MMA and the ongoing debate about the most effective methods for maximizing athlete performance.
23. The Future of MMA:
    • Edgar and Rogan reflect on the incredible growth and evolution of MMA, acknowledging the sport’s rapid ascent to popularity and its impact on the world of martial arts.
    • They discuss the increasing sophistication of techniques, training methods, and athleticism in the sport.
    • The conversation explores the potential for further innovation and advancement in MMA, highlighting the ongoing development of new techniques, technologies, and approaches to training.
    • The conversation emphasizes the exciting future of MMA, with its global appeal, its constantly evolving landscape, and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of human athleticism.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “You know, I always say three rules is as long as I’m enjoying it, and I want to do it, as long as I’m competitive, I don’t want to lose fights to guys I think I should be able to beat, and as long as my body holds up.” – Frankie Edgar, expressing his criteria for continuing to fight.
• “I feel like the best way to get in shape for a fight is by fighting.” – Frankie Edgar, emphasizing the importance of sparring in his preparation.
• “You know, I’m not a early guy.” – Frankie Edgar, jokingly acknowledging his preference for a later start to the day.
• “He said, ‘You can’t tickle yourself because you know the pressure you’re giving yourself, but someone else could tickle you’.” – Frankie Edgar, explaining the rationale behind the effectiveness of deep tissue massage.
• “This sport demands more appreciation, more respect, and it demands a higher level of reverence to the athletes who literally put their lives on the line.” – Joe Rogan, advocating for greater respect for MMA fighters.