JRE #1260 – Lennox Lewis & Russell Peters

7-Mar-19

Joe Rogan Podcast #1260 – Lennox Lewis & Russell Peters

This podcast brings together two legendary figures: Lennox Lewis, the three-time world heavyweight champion, and Russell Peters, a globally renowned stand-up comedian. Their conversation ranges from the physical and mental demands of boxing to the challenges of navigating fame and staying grounded. The podcast also delves into personal anecdotes, including Russell Peters’ experience confronting a jewelry thief and Lennox Lewis’s reflections on his career and legacy. Underlying themes explore the power of discipline, the impact of mental strength on athletic performance, and the importance of having the right mentors and support systems.

Major Topics

1. Lennox Lewis’s Post-Boxing Life and Transition:
   • Lewis discusses his struggles with maintaining his fitness routine after retiring from boxing.
   • He highlights the importance of finding new motivations and finding activities he enjoys, like tennis.
   • The podcast emphasizes the difficulty for fighters to adapt to a life without the constant training and focus on competition.
   • Lewis shares how social media criticism sparked his desire to get back in shape.
2. Russell Peters’s Encounter with a Jewelry Thief:
   • Peters recounts his experience confronting a jewelry thief trying to flee with a ring.
   • He details his attempt to subdue the thief with a wrist lock, ultimately preventing a potential altercation.
   • The incident highlights the practical application of martial arts skills and the importance of quick thinking.
   • Peters discusses the legal ramifications of potentially injuring a suspect and the need to act cautiously in similar situations.
3. Lennox Lewis’s Relationship with Emmanuel Stewart:
   • Lewis credits Emmanuel Stewart as a transformative figure in his boxing career.
   • He explains how Stewart’s coaching brought back his movement and honed his boxing skills.
   • The podcast emphasizes the importance of finding a coach who understands your strengths and weaknesses and pushes you to be your best.
   • Lewis describes Stewart’s unwavering belief in his abilities and how their relationship helped him achieve greatness.
4. The Mental and Physical Demands of Boxing:
   • The podcast delves into the unique mental aspect of boxing, where fighters train for a violent event.
   • Lewis discusses how fighters develop mental toughness and the importance of having a reason to train hard.
   • The podcast examines the psychological challenges of retirement and finding new purpose after a career focused on combat.
   • Both Lewis and Peters discuss the importance of discipline, mental focus, and staying active in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
5. The Impact of Social Media on Boxing:
   • The podcast explores the growing role of social media in boxing, both for promoting fighters and creating hype.
   • Lewis shares how social media criticism motivated him to lose weight and get back in shape.
   • The podcast highlights the increased pressure and scrutiny that social media brings to fighters’ lives.
   • The discussion examines the potential for social media to create unrealistic expectations and fuel a culture of negativity within boxing.
6. The Importance of Mentorship in Boxing:
   • The podcast explores the role of mentors in the development of a fighter’s career.
   • Lewis highlights the crucial impact of Emmanuel Stewart’s guidance on his boxing strategy and mindset.
   • The podcast discusses the importance of having a coach who can provide both technical and mental support.
   • Lewis emphasizes the significance of having mentors who believe in your potential and push you to achieve greatness.
7. The Evolution of Boxing Styles:
   • The podcast discusses the shift in boxing styles over the years, with the rise of MMA influencing techniques.
   • Lewis explains how MMA fighters’ stance and leg-kicking tactics differ from traditional boxing techniques.
   • The podcast explores the adaptations that boxers must make to counter these new strategies.
   • The discussion delves into the potential for MMA to be more financially lucrative, and how this might influence boxing’s future.
8. The Impact of Head Trauma in Boxing:
   • The podcast addresses the dangers of head trauma in boxing and the potential for long-term neurological damage.
   • Lewis and Peters discuss the growing awareness of punchy fighters and the psychological effects of repetitive head trauma.
   • The podcast touches on the issue of alcohol addiction among retired fighters and the link to traumatic brain injury.
   • Lewis emphasizes the importance of mental activities, like chess, in maintaining cognitive sharpness and mitigating the effects of head trauma.
9. Lennox Lewis’s Most Satisfying Victory:
   • Lewis reflects on his boxing career and chooses his rematch victory over Oliver McCall as his most satisfying moment.
   • He explains how the first fight against McCall, which he lost, was a learning experience and a source of motivation.
   • The podcast highlights Lewis’s dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to redemption.
   • Lewis emphasizes the importance of proving himself against a fighter who had previously defeated him, fulfilling a personal challenge.
10. The Controversial Decision in Lennox Lewis’s Fight Against Hasim Rahman:
    • Lewis discusses his controversial loss to Hasim Rahman and the subsequent legal battles to secure a rematch.
    • He expresses frustration at the early stoppage by the referee, believing he was still capable of continuing the fight.
    • The podcast highlights the subjectivity and potential for bias within boxing officiating.
    • Lewis explains his determination to prove that he was the better fighter by securing the rematch and ultimately winning the fight.
11. The Legacy of Muhammad Ali:
    • The podcast celebrates the legacy of Muhammad Ali and his influence on Lennox Lewis’s career.
    • Lewis mentions traveling to Africa for a fight, inspired by Ali’s own historic fight in the continent.
    • The podcast explores Ali’s impact on social justice and his role as a symbol of hope and resistance.
    • The discussion highlights Ali’s courage in challenging the status quo and his ability to use his platform for social change.
12. The Current Heavyweight Landscape:
    • Lewis provides insights into the current heavyweight boxing scene, focusing on the top contenders like Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and Tyson Fury.
    • He discusses the importance of stylistic diversity in making fights more exciting and unpredictable.
    • The podcast highlights the strategic significance of upcoming fights, like Joshua vs. Wilder, and their potential impact on the heavyweight division.
    • Lewis expresses his excitement about the prospect of seeing these fighters compete against each other for the ultimate title.
13. The Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Boxing:
    • The podcast addresses the widespread use of performance-enhancing drugs in boxing, with Lewis sharing his suspicions about certain fighters.
    • He explains how steroids can’t improve a fighter’s chin, highlighting the importance of natural physical attributes in boxing.
    • The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas associated with drug use in sports and the need for stricter regulations.
    • Lewis suggests that the use of steroids can affect a fighter’s mental state and hinder their long-term performance.
14. The Role of Genetics in Athletic Performance:
    • The podcast examines the impact of genetics on athletic potential, citing examples of fighters like Frank Bruno and Mike Tyson.
    • Lewis acknowledges the importance of genetics in determining a fighter’s natural strength and build.
    • The podcast discusses the debate about whether certain body types are inherently more suited to boxing.
    • The conversation explores the limitations of genetics and the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.
15. The Importance of Mental Strength in Sports:
    • The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of mental strength in boxing, highlighting Tyson’s ability to persevere through challenging times.
    • Lewis discusses the psychological aspect of boxing, where fighters must be able to handle pressure, overcome setbacks, and maintain focus.
    • The podcast explores the mental challenges of facing a formidable opponent like Tyson and the importance of staying composed under pressure.
    • The discussion touches on the impact of mental conditioning on a fighter’s ability to withstand pain and continue fighting.
16. The Importance of Balance and Well-Roundedness:
    • Lewis emphasizes the importance of pursuing intellectual pursuits, like chess, to stay mentally sharp and engaged.
    • The podcast highlights how mental activities can benefit a fighter’s focus, strategic thinking, and overall cognitive health.
    • The discussion encourages finding activities that bring joy and challenge beyond the realm of competitive sports.
    • Lewis highlights the importance of balance and well-roundedness in achieving a fulfilling and healthy life.
17. The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Athletic Performance:
    • The podcast delves into the formative experiences that shaped Mike Tyson’s career, particularly his difficult childhood and the influence of mentors like Cus D’Amato.
    • Lewis discusses the lack of proper guidance and the absence of coping mechanisms that led to Tyson’s tumultuous career.
    • The podcast highlights the potential for early childhood trauma and a lack of positive mentorship to hinder a fighter’s development.
    • The conversation emphasizes the importance of providing young athletes with support systems that foster emotional well-being and responsible decision-making.
18. The Importance of Finding the Right Coach:
    • The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of coaches in a fighter’s success, particularly for young athletes.
    • Lewis and Peters discuss the difference between good trainers and those who simply exploit fighters for personal gain.
    • The podcast highlights the importance of having a coach who is committed to a fighter’s development, not just their financial success.
    • The conversation explores the challenge of finding a coach who is both a skilled instructor and a supportive mentor.
19. The Evolution of MMA and its Impact on Boxing:
    • The podcast examines the rise of MMA and its impact on boxing, specifically regarding fighting styles and financial incentives.
    • Lewis discusses the potential for fighters like Errol Spence Jr. to make more money in MMA, given its growing popularity and lucrative pay-per-view events.
    • The podcast highlights the similarities and differences between boxing and MMA, including the use of kicks, grappling, and submission holds.
    • The discussion touches on the potential for MMA to eclipse boxing in popularity and financial success in the coming years.
20. The Importance of Physical Conditioning:
    • The podcast underscores the need for consistent physical training and conditioning, even after retirement from competitive sports.
    • Lewis discusses his commitment to maintaining fitness, highlighting his daily runs and yoga practice.
    • The podcast encourages finding physical activities that are enjoyable and sustainable for long-term health and well-being.
    • The discussion touches on the benefits of activities like saunas and Epsom salt baths in reducing inflammation and promoting muscle recovery.
21. The Future of Boxing:
    • The podcast explores the future of boxing, considering the challenges of attracting new fans and maintaining relevance.
    • Lewis discusses the importance of finding new ways to promote the sport and create excitement for fans.
    • The podcast touches on the impact of MMA and its potential to overshadow boxing’s popularity.
    • The conversation highlights the need for boxing to adapt and evolve to stay competitive in a changing landscape of combat sports.
22. The Impact of Politics on Sports:
    • The podcast addresses the influence of politics on sports, specifically focusing on the controversies surrounding Donald Trump’s presidency.
    • Lewis expresses his belief that Russian interference played a role in Trump’s election victory.
    • The podcast highlights the potential for foreign powers to manipulate public opinion and sow discord through social media platforms.
    • The discussion touches on the growing tension between Russia and the United States and its potential implications for international sports relations.
23. The Legacy of Jack Johnson:
    • The podcast celebrates the legacy of Jack Johnson, a pioneering black boxer who faced intense racism and discrimination.
    • Lewis discusses Johnson’s rebellious nature and his refusal to conform to societal expectations.
    • The podcast highlights Johnson’s impact on race relations in America and his role as a symbol of defiance and resistance.
    • The conversation explores the enduring relevance of Johnson’s story and his lasting influence on the fight for equality and social justice.
24. The Importance of Discipline and Mental Toughness:
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of discipline and mental toughness in achieving success in both boxing and life.
    • Lewis discusses how these traits played a crucial role in his boxing career, enabling him to withstand adversity and overcome obstacles.
    • The podcast highlights the need for dedication, commitment, and unwavering focus in pursuing any endeavor.
    • The conversation underscores the importance of developing these mental qualities as a foundation for personal growth and achieving goals.
25. The Power of Positive Mentorship:
    • The podcast explores the transformative power of having positive mentors who believe in your potential and guide your development.
    • Lewis and Peters discuss the impact of mentors like Emmanuel Stewart and Cus D’Amato on their careers and lives.
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from those who have achieved success and can share their wisdom and experience.
    • The conversation highlights the role of mentors in shaping character, instilling values, and fostering personal growth.
26. The Importance of Giving Back:
    • Lewis discusses his commitment to giving back to the community through his boxing school in Jamaica.
    • He explains his desire to provide young people with opportunities and guidance, empowering them to achieve their dreams.
    • The podcast highlights the importance of using success and influence to make a positive impact on others.
    • The conversation emphasizes the value of sharing knowledge, experience, and resources to uplift and empower future generations.

Memorable Quotes

1. “Don’t get in the new fight. But you know what else? You have your What’s about you? A hundred percent? You’re you’re smooth and relaxed. You know, how did you do that? I started out that way. It’s like, you know, Apple don’t far too far from the 3 type of thing. I’ve always been that way collective thinker, soft spoken. And what you don’t know about me, what you don’t know about me, when you do know about me, you love me even more.”
2. “You watch MMA today? Yeah. Do you would you ever watch it and go? If this was around when I was fighting, would I do this? The only thing I think about that because, you know, like I said, I was in a wrestling in in I did wrestling when I was younger and boxing as well. So I didn’t know they could combine them to till I got older, but you know, my focus was more unboxing. But, you know, if they get paid a lot of money, I probably would have done it.”
3. “I think it is a mental thing. You Like, when you fight Marlovich, — Yeah. — that guy wouldn’t go home. — that guy wouldn’t go home. He gave me a lot of trouble. I was at that fight, gave me a lot of trouble. Lennox box, this guy running the ring for 12 rounds, like, literally the guy’s head snapping back and this guy’s not going Not going well. Yeah. He was going nowhere.”
4. “And, you know, imagine the people out there that commit a crime, spend 3, 4 years in jail because of some stupid crime. They could spend that time training and being the world champion — Yeah. — at something — Yeah. — at anything.”
5. “I don’t think there’s anybody that’s really trying to control population or even less. What about this 1? Okay. Do you think the Russians put Donald Trump in the president’s chair? I think the Russians absolutely wanted Donald Trump to win. Absolutely. And I think they definitely undermined our democracy through various methods of manipulating people through social media.”