JRE MMA Show #77 with Cedric Doumbe

This podcast features Joe Rogan’s conversation with Cedric Doumbe, a Glory Kickboxing World champion. The podcast explores Doumbe’s journey from kickboxing to MMA, his unique training methods, and his aspirations for the future. Provocative topics include Doumbe’s unconventional approach to training, his confidence in transitioning to MMA, and his willingness to challenge established champions. Underlying themes revolve around the pursuit of excellence in different combat sports, the power of self-belief, and the challenges of navigating the complexities of professional fighting.

• Cedric Doumbe’s Transition to MMA:

  • Doumbe reveals his desire to become a champion in both kickboxing and MMA, echoing the ambition of Conor McGregor.
  • Despite initial dislike for wrestling, Doumbe’s interest in MMA grew after training and observing the complexity of the sport.
  • He aims to “do what Conor McGregor couldn’t do,” becoming a successful champion in two distinct combat sports.
  • Doumbe’s background in kickboxing, with its emphasis on movement and striking, gives him a unique advantage for a smooth transition to MMA.

• Doumbe’s Unconventional Training Methods:

  • Doumbe coaches himself for kickboxing, a rare feat for a world champion, demonstrating his self-reliance and confidence.
  • He prioritizes strength and conditioning, believing it to be more crucial than technical skills in combat sports.
  • His rigorous training regime involves daily strength and conditioning, with a focus on cardio and endurance.
  • Doumbe employs diverse methods, including running on the beach, training on assault bikes and air runners, and incorporating weightlifting twice a week.

• Doumbe’s Confidence in MMA:

  • He believes his striking skills are superior to those of any fighter at AKA, but acknowledges the need to improve his grappling.
  • Despite being a beginner in MMA, Doumbe’s learning speed and natural talent make him confident in his future success.
  • His goal is to enter the UFC and challenge top contenders like Nate Diaz or Anthony Pettis for his first fight.
  • Doumbe’s ambition to shock the world by defeating elite MMA fighters in his first fights showcases his unwavering self-belief.

• The Future of Glory Kickboxing:

  • Doumbe acknowledges the potential for kickboxing to be overshadowed by MMA if top fighters switch disciplines.
  • He believes that the popularity of kickboxing in Europe, especially in Holland and France, is a testament to the sport’s appeal.
  • Doumbe attributes the lack of kickboxing’s popularity in the US to MMA’s dominance in the market, as well as the perceived simplicity of its rules.
  • He expresses disappointment with the promotion of Glory in the US, highlighting the limited exposure compared to MMA.

• Doumbe’s Stand-Up Comedy Career:

  • Doumbe’s stand-up comedy career adds an unusual dimension to his persona, showcasing his versatility and creative talents.
  • His love for acting and comedy predates his involvement in combat sports, highlighting his passion for performance.
  • Despite focusing on kickboxing, Doumbe continues to pursue his acting ambitions, recently starring in a short film.
  • He considers comedy his ultimate dream, a testament to his diverse interests and aspirations beyond combat sports.

• Doumbe’s Kickboxing Journey:

  • Doumbe’s kickboxing journey started at a young age, initially drawn to the sport by his cousin’s suggestion.
  • He transitioned from soccer to full contact kickboxing, showcasing his natural athleticism and adaptability.
  • Doumbe’s passion for the sport was evident even when facing his mother’s initial disapproval, demonstrating his determination.
  • His first fight at age 17 marked the beginning of a successful career, culminating in becoming a world champion.

• The Significance of the Nikki Holtzkin Fights:

  • Doumbe’s fights against Nikki Holtzkin, especially the first one, became defining moments in his career.
  • His victory against the undefeated Holtzkin, who was considered a dominant force, brought him widespread recognition.
  • The fights showcased Doumbe’s ability to surprise his opponents, his strategic thinking, and his adaptability.
  • Doumbe’s win against Holtzkin solidified his status as a top contender, propelling him to the top of Glory Kickboxing.

• The Importance of Family and Support:

  • Doumbe’s mother initially opposed his involvement in fighting but eventually embraced his success.
  • His mother’s unwavering support motivates Doumbe to excel in combat sports, showcasing the importance of family in his journey.
  • Doumbe’s commitment to training hard and avoiding getting knocked out stems from a desire to avoid upsetting his mother.
  • The heartwarming video of Doumbe’s mother celebrating his victory reflects the deep bond they share and the role she plays in his life.

• The Legacy of Baderari:

  • Baderari’s legacy as a legend in kickboxing is built on his fighting prowess and his controversial, wild persona.
  • Doumbe admires Baderari’s fighting style and his ability to draw in audiences through his captivating personality.
  • He acknowledges that Baderari’s reputation as a “bad boy” contributes to his popularity, highlighting the appeal of fighters who push boundaries.
  • Doumbe’s comparison of Baderari’s aura to the attention generated by Conor McGregor emphasizes the impact of persona in combat sports.

• Conor McGregor’s Future:

  • Doumbe acknowledges McGregor’s recent troubles, including his altercation with a man in a bar.
  • He questions McGregor’s future in combat sports, considering his recent controversies and the risks involved in fighting.
  • Doumbe highlights the potential for McGregor’s actions to damage his legacy, as some fans may be alienated by his behavior.
  • He speculates that McGregor’s next big fight might be against Nate Diaz, a rematch that promises significant financial rewards.

• Kabib Nurmagomedov’s Dominance:

  • Doumbe recognizes Kabib Nurmagomedov’s dominance in UFC, particularly his terrifying wrestling skills.
  • He acknowledges that Kabib’s wrestling prowess poses a significant challenge for anyone competing against him.
  • Doumbe’s observations on Kabib’s training methods at AKA highlight the intensity and dedication of top-level MMA fighters.
  • He mentions a humorous video of Kabib and his teammates playing “Wrestle Basketball,” showcasing the unique culture within the AKA training camp.

• The Importance of Mentality in Fighting:

  • Doumbe believes that while some fighters benefit from mental coaches, he relies on his own mental strength and resilience.
  • His story of overcoming hardship, from his early years in a small apartment in Paris to becoming a world champion, serves as his motivation.
  • He emphasizes the power of perspective, reminding himself of his journey and the challenges he has overcome to stay grounded.
  • Doumbe’s self-reflection and ability to reframe stressful situations as opportunities to prove himself highlight his mental fortitude.

• The Difference Between Sparring and a Fight:

  • Doumbe highlights the stark contrast between sparring in the gym and the intensity of actual fights.
  • He emphasizes the heightened sensory experience of fighting, including the pressure, lights, smell, and emotions.
  • Doumbe’s experience with opponents using tie-all on their gloves to irritate his eyes showcases the underhanded tactics that can occur in combat sports.
  • He believes that the pressure and intensity of a fight amplify the physical impact of strikes, making them feel much stronger than in practice.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “I’m not thinking, that’s what I will do. You will do. That’s what I want to do.” – Doumbe’s assertive statement about his desire to become an MMA champion.
• “I want to be the only one to be able to do that. And Glory kickboxing champ and then UFC champ.” – Doumbe’s ambitious goal to achieve championship status in both kickboxing and MMA.
• “I want people to be afraid of me on the ground. As I learn fast, as I really like it, I think that’s the level I want to get.” – Doumbe’s desire to become a well-rounded fighter, mastering both striking and grappling.
• “I train myself. I have, of course, my friend in friends who hold meets for me. I can’t hold meet for myself. He holds me for me and we just talk together, we just plan a game plan together for a fight. We just… I’m my own coach, you know. I never had a coach.” – Doumbe’s unique approach to self-coaching, demonstrating his confidence and independence.
• “I really hope that I will never get knocked out because I don’t want you to see me fall down. I don’t want her to feel this kind of emotion. I just want her to be happy that I won.” – Doumbe’s heartfelt motivation to protect his mother from the emotional toll of seeing him lose or get injured.