JRE MMA Show #79 with Vinny Shoreman & Liam Harrison

18-Sep-19

JRE MMA Show #79 with Vinny Shoreman & Liam Harrison – Topic Breakdown

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience dives deep into the world of kickboxing and Muay Thai, featuring insights from mind coach Vinny Shoreman and 8-time world champion Liam Harrison. They discuss the intricacies of fighting styles, the importance of mental toughness, and the often-overlooked aspects of strength and conditioning. Provocative topics include the effectiveness of different training methods, the dangers of overtraining, and the controversial use of performance-enhancing substances. Underlying themes explore the pursuit of excellence, the importance of self-awareness, and the impact of cultural influences on fighting styles.

1. The Impact of Age and Injuries on a Fighter’s Career

Liam Harrison, at 33 years old, recognizes the limitations of his remaining fighting years.
Both Liam and Joe discuss how injuries, especially in the later stages of a career, can significantly impact a fighter’s longevity.
They emphasize the importance of smart training and recovery methods to prolong careers.
The episode highlights the delicate balance between pushing oneself and preserving one’s body for future success.

2. The Benefits and Challenges of Hot Yoga for Fighters

Liam shares his experience with hot yoga, noting its difficulty and unexpected benefits.
Joe and Vinny discuss research on the potential benefits of hot yoga, particularly its ability to reduce inflammation.
They highlight the advantages of hot yoga for fighters, including improved flexibility, balance, and coordination.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of holistic training methods that encompass physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

3. The Importance of Strength and Conditioning for Fighters

Joe and Vinny delve into the debate about the optimal strength and conditioning program for fighters.
They discuss the contrasting approaches of the “Nick Kersel school” and the “Marv Marinovich school,” highlighting the emphasis on strength vs. technique.
They emphasize the importance of a strength and conditioning coach who understands the unique demands of combat sports.
The discussion highlights the need for a balanced approach that integrates strength, conditioning, and technical skill development.

4. The Pros and Cons of Fighting with Bare Knuckles

Liam and Joe discuss the increasing popularity of bare-knuckle fighting, particularly in England.
They share personal experiences of fighting with MMA gloves vs. bare knuckles, highlighting the different impacts on defense and technique.
They analyze the pros and cons of bare-knuckle fighting, acknowledging its increased risk of injury but also its raw and visceral appeal.
The conversation delves into the potential consequences of fighting with minimal protection and the need for careful consideration of the risks involved.

5. The Rise of One Championship and Its Impact on Muay Thai

Liam and Joe discuss the growing prominence of One Championship, especially in the Asian market.
They highlight the organization’s unique approach of featuring Muay Thai, kickboxing, and MMA fighters on the same card, creating a diverse and exciting product.
They analyze the potential of One Championship to bring Muay Thai to a wider audience, both in Asia and globally.
The conversation explores the future of Muay Thai and its potential for greater recognition and financial success.

6. The Controversial Weight Cutting Practices in MMA

Joe and Liam express their concerns about extreme weight cutting in MMA, arguing that it can lead to severe health consequences.
They discuss the specific weight cutting practices employed by MMA fighters and the risks involved, particularly for their kidneys and overall health.
They praise One Championship’s no-weight-cut policy, arguing that it promotes a healthier and more equitable playing field.
The conversation emphasizes the need for greater awareness of the potential dangers of weight cutting and a move towards a more sustainable approach to fighting.

7. The Importance of Mental Toughness in Combat Sports

Vinny Shoreman, as a mind coach, shares his insights into the importance of mental toughness in fighting.
He discusses his work with fighters, focusing on helping them overcome past traumas and negative beliefs that may hinder their performance.
Vinny emphasizes the crucial role of mental training in building confidence, focus, and resilience.
The conversation highlights the need for a holistic approach to fighting that incorporates mental as well as physical preparation.

8. The Use of Hypnosis and Quantum Linguistics in Combat Sports

Vinny discusses his use of hypnosis and quantum linguistics as tools for mental training.
He explains the principles behind these techniques and how they can be used to improve focus, reduce anxiety, and enhance performance.
Vinny shares his personal experience with Liam Harrison, highlighting the positive impact of hypnosis on his fighting.
The conversation explores the potential of unconventional methods to enhance mental performance and the growing acceptance of these practices in combat sports.

9. The Cultural Influences on Fighting Styles

Liam and Joe discuss the distinctive characteristics of different fighting styles, particularly Muay Thai, kickboxing, and boxing.
They analyze how cultural influences shape the development and evolution of fighting styles.
They highlight the unique strengths and weaknesses of each style, emphasizing the importance of understanding cultural nuances in combat sports.
The conversation explores the rich tapestry of fighting traditions around the world and the contributions of various cultures to the evolution of combat sports.

10. The Rise of Dutch Moroccan Kickboxers

Liam and Joe discuss the emergence of a new breed of kickboxers from Dutch Moroccan backgrounds.
They highlight their aggressive and unpredictable fighting style, often characterized by a blend of kickboxing and Muay Thai techniques.
They analyze the reasons behind their success, including their intense training regimen and their willingness to engage in full-blown wars.
The conversation explores the impact of cultural fusion and the emergence of new and exciting fighting styles within the world of kickboxing.

11. The Legacy of Badr Hari and His Controversial Past

Joe and Liam discuss the legacy of Badr Hari, a controversial but undeniably talented kickboxer.
They highlight his impressive physique and fighting style but also acknowledge his history of legal trouble and drug use.
They discuss the implications of his behavior for the sport and the need for greater accountability among elite athletes.
The conversation delves into the complexities of balancing athletic excellence with personal responsibility.

12. The Undisputed Greatness of Lomachenko and His Unique Style

Joe and Liam discuss the exceptional talent of Vasyl Lomachenko, a pound-for-pound boxing great.
They analyze his unique style, characterized by exceptional footwork, angles, and timing.
They share their impressions of Lomachenko’s fights and the difficulty of predicting his next move.
The conversation highlights the impact of Lomachenko’s father’s unconventional training methods, emphasizing the role of unorthodox thinking in achieving athletic greatness.

13. The Rise of Andy Ruiz and His Upset Victory Over Anthony Joshua

Joe and Liam discuss the improbable rise of Andy Ruiz and his stunning upset victory over Anthony Joshua.
They analyze Ruiz’s unique fighting style, characterized by fluidity, volume punching, and a dangerous ability to close the distance.
They discuss the potential reasons for Joshua’s poor performance, including rumors of a pre-fight injury and the psychological impact of the upset.
The conversation explores the unpredictable nature of boxing and the potential for unexpected outcomes, particularly in high-stakes championship fights.

14. The Impact of Mental Training on a Fighter’s Performance

Joe and Vinny discuss the profound impact of mental training on a fighter’s performance.
They highlight the importance of overcoming past traumas and negative beliefs to achieve peak performance.
They emphasize the role of a mind coach in guiding fighters through mental challenges and helping them develop a winning mindset.
The conversation underscores the importance of a holistic approach to fighting that prioritizes both mental and physical preparation.

15. The Enduring Legacy of Muay Thai in Thailand

Liam and Joe discuss the deep-rooted tradition of Muay Thai in Thailand.
They highlight the unique cultural significance of the sport and its pervasive influence on Thai society.
They analyze the intense training regimen and competitive spirit that permeate Muay Thai culture.
The conversation explores the historical and cultural context that has shaped Muay Thai and its enduring appeal.

16. The Unpredictability and Excitement of MMA

Joe and Liam discuss the inherent unpredictability of MMA, emphasizing the wide range of fighting styles and techniques.
They highlight the potential for upsets and the constant need for fighters to adapt to changing circumstances.
They analyze the unique aspects of MMA that make it such an exciting and captivating sport.
The conversation explores the thrill of the unknown and the constant potential for dramatic outcomes in MMA fights.

17. The Controversial History of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Combat Sports

Joe and Liam discuss the historical use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in combat sports.
They analyze the potential advantages and disadvantages of using PEDs, acknowledging their ability to enhance performance but also their potential health risks.
They discuss the controversial nature of PEDs and the ongoing debate about their place in combat sports.
The conversation delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding PED use and the need for stricter testing and enforcement.

18. The Impact of Social Media on Fighters

Joe and Liam discuss the influence of social media on fighters and the potential for it to both enhance and hinder their careers.
They highlight the benefits of social media for building fan bases and promoting fights but also acknowledge its potential for negativity and distractions.
They discuss the importance of maintaining a positive and professional image online and the need for fighters to be mindful of their online presence.
The conversation explores the evolving landscape of combat sports and the increasing role of social media in shaping athletes’ careers.

19. The Future of Combat Sports

Joe and Liam discuss their predictions for the future of combat sports.
They analyze the growth of organizations like One Championship and the potential for greater global reach.
They discuss the continued evolution of fighting styles and the emergence of new and exciting talents.
The conversation explores the potential for combat sports to become even more popular and mainstream in the coming years.

20. The Importance of Recognizing and Honoring Fighters’ Mental Toughness

Joe and Vinny emphasize the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest levels of combat sports.
They acknowledge the unique challenges faced by fighters, including the constant pressure to perform, the risk of injury, and the emotional toll of competition.
They discuss the importance of recognizing and honoring fighters’ mental toughness, which often goes unnoticed by the general public.
The conversation highlights the incredible resilience and dedication of fighters, who push themselves to their physical and mental limits in pursuit of victory.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“I’m gutted that it didn’t come around earlier, and now I’m like 33 now so I’ve got like three or four years left.” – Liam Harrison, reflecting on the limited time he has left in his fighting career.
“It’s one of those things where people look at it like it’s some relaxing thing. It’s one of the most underestimated activities you can do in terms of like the amount of stress and strain that’s required. It’s fucking hard.” – Joe Rogan, on the difficulty of hot yoga.
“I think the thing is that’s the two worst things I got cooked four times on one eye and me hands after the fight because we had like a bit of a war and I just started swinging all over the place.” – Liam Harrison, sharing his experience fighting with bare knuckles.
“I think he’s got a sense of awareness that I think especially people have you know, he’s distancing Georgia patrols you know Floyd they just seems to have this ingrained sort of congruence with you know he also is very agile in terms of his footwork.” – Joe Rogan, discussing the fighting style of Saenchai.
“You know, and that’s also the thing about the no weight cuts at one FC that makes things very interesting. Yeah, that was fucking hard that for the first time I did ever did it.” – Liam Harrison, on the advantages of One Championship’s no-weight-cut policy.