JRE MMA Show #85 with Max Holloway

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and former UFC Featherweight Champion Max Holloway. They discuss Max’s recent fight against Alexander Volkanovski, the scoring system in MMA, and the importance of having martial arts experience as a judge. They also delve into topics like genetics in combat sports, the unique style of fighters like Tony Ferguson and Israel Adesanya, and the challenges of weight cutting.

Here are some of the major topics explored in the podcast:

1. Max Holloway’s Loss to Alexander Volkanovski:
   • Max discusses his belief that he won the fight, despite losing on points.
   • He argues that the current 10-point must scoring system favors leg kicks over punches.
   • He believes that judges should have more martial arts experience to better understand the intricacies of the sport.
   • The conversation raises questions about how scoring in MMA should be evaluated.
2. The Importance of Martial Arts Experience for Judges:
   • Max expresses frustration with judges who lack martial arts experience.
   • He argues that judges should be able to identify and understand the nuances of fighting techniques.
   • He advocates for hiring ex-fighters or experienced martial artists as judges.
   • This discussion raises questions about the qualifications of judges in a sport that requires specialized knowledge.
3. Genetics in Combat Sports:
   • Max discusses the role of genetics in determining factors like punching power and cardio.
   • He highlights examples like Deontay Wilder and Mike Tyson, who possess exceptional punching power.
   • He also acknowledges the role of hard work, but suggests that some abilities are inherently genetic.
   • This conversation explores the fascinating intersection of genetics and athletic performance in combat sports.
4. Tony Ferguson’s Unorthodox Fighting Style:
   • Max describes Tony Ferguson as the most unorthodox high-level fighter he has ever encountered.
   • He explains that fighting someone with an awkward style can be challenging, even in sparring.
   • He highlights Ferguson’s ability to strike from unexpected angles and his relentless cardio.
   • This conversation examines the unique challenges posed by fighters who defy traditional fighting styles.
5. The Risks of Weight Cutting:
   • Max talks about his experience with weight cutting and how it led to a medical issue before a fight.
   • He discusses the controversial practice of weight cutting in MMA and how it can be dangerous.
   • He supports alternative methods like hydration tests and fighting at natural weight.
   • The conversation raises questions about the safety of weight cutting and the need for more comprehensive regulations.
6. The Popularity of Bare Knuckle Boxing:
   • Max discusses the growing popularity of bare knuckle boxing and its differences from MMA.
   • He believes that MMA fighters are more well-rounded than professional boxers.
   • He argues that techniques that work in boxing with gloves may not be effective in bare knuckle fighting.
   • This discussion explores the evolution of combat sports and the appeal of a more primitive form of fighting.
7. Colby Covington’s Controversial Persona:
   • Max discusses Colby Covington’s controversial persona and how it has made him one of the most popular fighters in the sport.
   • He admires Covington’s ability to create a compelling narrative, despite being a talented fighter.
   • He acknowledges that Covington’s trash-talking is a calculated strategy to generate interest.
   • This conversation explores the role of theatrics and personality in combat sports and how it can influence a fighter’s popularity.
8. The Importance of a Good Team:
   • Max emphasizes the importance of having a good team that supports him both physically and mentally.
   • He describes how his team handles the details of his training and career, allowing him to focus on fighting.
   • He values the structure and support provided by his team, which helps him stay on track.
   • This discussion highlights the importance of collaborative support systems in achieving success in combat sports.
9. The Unique Challenges of Fighting Tall Opponents:
   • Max discusses the difficulty of fighting tall opponents like John Jones and how they use their reach to their advantage.
   • He highlights John Jones’s ability to control distance and strike effectively from a long range.
   • He acknowledges the challenges of fighting someone who can keep you at bay and strike with power.
   • This conversation explores the specific strategies and skills needed to overcome the reach advantage of taller fighters.
10. The Importance of Mental Toughness:
    • Max discusses the mental aspects of fighting and how important it is to push through fatigue and discomfort.
    • He explains that being able to fight effectively when tired is a hallmark of greatness.
    • He highlights the mental fortitude needed to stay focused and aggressive when facing adversity in the octagon.
    • This conversation explores the mental game of combat sports and the psychological aspects of achieving success.
11. The Importance of Constant Pressure in Fighting:
    • Max describes his fighting style, which emphasizes constant pressure and a relentless pace.
    • He believes that this style wears down opponents and makes them more susceptible to finishing moves.
    • He explains that his goal is to outclass opponents in every aspect of the fight, not just rely on one specific skill.
    • This conversation showcases the importance of developing a comprehensive fighting style and utilizing a variety of techniques.
12. The Future of Max Holloway’s Career:
    • Max discusses his desire for a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski, believing it would be a great fight for the fans.
    • He is open to fighting other opponents in different weight classes if the opportunity arises.
    • He remains committed to becoming the greatest fighter of all time and is willing to take on any challenge.
    • This discussion highlights Max’s competitive spirit and his determination to achieve greatness in combat sports.
13. The Unpredictability of Life and MMA:
    • Max compares the unpredictability of life to the unpredictable nature of MMA.
    • He enjoys the chaos and randomness of both life and fighting, believing it makes success more meaningful.
    • He acknowledges that fighting is a risky endeavor, but he embraces the challenges and uncertainties.
    • This conversation explores the shared themes of unpredictability and the importance of embracing the unknown in both life and combat sports.
14. The Importance of Hard Work:
    • Max credits his grandfather for instilling a strong work ethic in him.
    • He discusses the sacrifices he made in school to pursue his athletic goals.
    • He believes that hard work is essential for achieving success in any field.
    • This conversation highlights the importance of dedication, discipline, and perseverance in reaching one’s goals.
15. The Appeal of Hawaii:
    • Max expresses his love for Hawaii and its natural beauty.
    • He acknowledges that Hawaii has a distinct culture and should be considered sovereign.
    • He believes that Hawaii has a unique reverence for nature.
    • This conversation explores Max’s personal connection to Hawaii and his appreciation for its unique culture and environment.
16. The Influence of Video Games on MMA Training:
    • Max reveals that he used to practice striking techniques by mimicking moves from UFC video games.
    • He explains how video games can be a valuable tool for learning and practicing fighting strategies.
    • He discusses the importance of accuracy and precision in video games and how it can translate to real-life fighting.
    • This conversation explores the unexpected intersections between video games and combat sports training.
17. The Rise of Esports and Professional Gaming:
    • Max discusses the growing popularity of esports and the fact that professional gamers can make millions of dollars.
    • He recognizes the talent and dedication required to be successful in esports.
    • He discusses the potential for esports to become a mainstream sport, attracting large audiences and sponsorship opportunities.
    • This conversation highlights the evolution of gaming from a hobby to a professional career path.
18. The Dangers of Drug Use in Hawaii:
    • Max discusses the prevalence of drug use in Hawaii and how it affected some of his family members.
    • He explains that he has never used drugs and avoids them due to his personal experiences.
    • He highlights the importance of making positive choices and avoiding destructive behaviors.
    • This conversation explores the social and personal challenges of drug addiction in Hawaii and the importance of making healthy choices.

Here are 5 memorable quotes from the podcast:

• “It’s an interesting game when it comes to scoring, right? Because like, what should be scored more, punches or leg kicks? Like, you know, it’s, it’s hard. Like, leg kicks are damaging. They mean a lot.” – Max Holloway on the controversial scoring system in MMA.
• “We shouldn’t have that system. Yeah. We should have a more comprehensive system that recognizes everything.” – Max Holloway on the need for a more comprehensive scoring system in MMA.
• “I think there’s a real problem with judges not even being martial artists.” – Max Holloway expressing frustration with judges who lack martial arts experience.
• “Everybody keeps telling me, oh you guys, it’s just like knockout power, like you can’t build it, but some people just have it.” – Max Holloway discussing the role of genetics in punching power.
• “I just want to be the greatest of all time, and he’s the guy there. You know, he’s one of the guys that, he’s one of the guys that stood undefeated in an MMA.” – Max Holloway on his motivation for fighting Alexander Volkanovski.