JRE #1072 – Joey Diaz

Joe Rogan Podcast #1072 – Joey Diaz Topics

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features Cuban-American stand-up comedian and actor Joey “Coco” Diaz. The conversation is a wild ride through Diaz’s life experiences, touching on a vast range of topics, from his Cuban upbringing and encounters with the mafia to his views on drug addiction, gambling, and the state of modern comedy.

Major Topics

1. The Cuban Wrestling Program:
   • Diaz discusses how young Cuban athletes were selected for intense wrestling training programs.
   • These programs were often forced upon kids, sending them away from their families.
   • Diaz highlights how the Russian influence contributed to Cuba’s technical approach to wrestling.
   • The topic delves into the unique training methods and the legacy of Cuban wrestlers in MMA.
2. Lomachenko’s Wrestling Background:
   • Rogan and Diaz analyze the impact of Lomachenko’s wrestling background on his boxing prowess.
   • They point to his technical mastery and unique footwork, attributing it to cross-training in dance and wrestling.
   • Lomachenko’s style is discussed as a testament to the benefits of diverse training methods.
   • The discussion highlights the importance of strategic training for achieving peak performance in different disciplines.
3. Michael Bisping’s Comeback:
   • Diaz recounts Bisping’s improbable victory over Luke Rockhold on short notice.
   • The discussion revolves around Bisping’s fighting spirit and willingness to accept any challenge.
   • They speculate on Rockhold’s mental state during the fight, suggesting that his off-field distractions might have affected his performance.
   • The topic highlights the unpredictable nature of MMA and the importance of mental focus for fighters.
4. Francis Ngannou’s Rise and Loss:
   • Diaz recounts Ngannou’s meteoric rise from homelessness to a heavyweight title shot.
   • The discussion explores the significance of Ngannou’s loss to Stipe Miocic and the lessons learned from it.
   • Diaz emphasizes the importance of continued training and experience in MMA.
   • The topic highlights the constant evolution of fighters and the challenges of reaching the pinnacle of the sport.
5. The Intimidating Presence of Stipe Miocic:
   • Diaz praises Miocic’s mental strength and ability to withstand Ngannou’s immense power.
   • The conversation delves into Miocic’s strategic approach and his resilience in the face of adversity.
   • Diaz emphasizes the importance of experience and mental fortitude in high-stakes combat.
   • The topic explores the mental and physical attributes that make a champion fighter.
6. The Immigrant Mentality:
   • Diaz explores the influence of his immigrant background on his character and worldview.
   • He discusses the drive, resilience, and determination that often define immigrant communities.
   • Diaz highlights how his upbringing shaped his values and work ethic.
   • The topic touches on the cultural forces that influence individual identity and success.
7. The Numbers Game:
   • Diaz recounts his family’s involvement in the illegal numbers racket.
   • He explains the mechanics of the system and its popularity within immigrant communities.
   • The conversation highlights the socioeconomic context of the numbers game and its role in providing hope and opportunity.
   • The topic explores the historical and cultural significance of gambling within certain communities.
8. The Intuition of His Grandmother:
   • Diaz shares a story of his grandmother’s apparent intuition, saving his mother from a ceiling collapse.
   • He discusses the concept of intuition and its role in his family’s experiences.
   • The topic touches on the role of instinct and personal belief systems.
   • The discussion explores the boundaries between rational and irrational thought and its impact on decision-making.
9. The Influence of His Stepdad:
   • Diaz recounts how he saved his stepdad from a police raid by observing police cars near a card game.
   • He discusses the complex relationship with his stepdad, marked by both conflict and respect.
   • Diaz reflects on the lessons learned from his stepdad’s experiences with gambling and the underworld.
   • The topic explores the dynamics of family relationships and the challenges of navigating different generations and perspectives.
10. The World of Bookmakers:
    • Diaz provides a glimpse into the clandestine world of bookmakers and the intricate network they operated.
    • He describes the code of conduct, the risks, and the culture of secrecy.
    • The conversation highlights the historical and cultural aspects of organized gambling.
    • The topic delves into the often-unseen world of underground operations and the individuals who operate within them.
11. The Problem with Gambling Addiction:
    • Diaz discusses the dangers of gambling addiction, drawing parallels to drug addiction.
    • He shares personal experiences and anecdotes of friends who lost everything due to gambling.
    • Diaz criticizes the government’s regulation of gambling, questioning its rationale.
    • The topic explores the societal and individual implications of addictive behaviors and the complexities of regulation.
12. The Prevalence of Gambling Addiction:
    • Diaz argues that women are disproportionately affected by gambling addiction.
    • He discusses the addictive nature of slot machines and the psychological impact they have on players.
    • Diaz highlights the insidious nature of addiction, emphasizing its devastating consequences.
    • The topic delves into the societal and cultural factors that contribute to gambling addiction.
13. The History of Sports Betting:
    • Diaz discusses Chris Christie’s efforts to legalize sports betting in New Jersey.
    • He delves into the arguments for and against legalized sports betting.
    • Diaz expresses his support for broader legalization of gambling.
    • The topic explores the evolving landscape of gambling regulations and its impact on society.
14. The Allure and Dangers of Drugs:
    • Diaz recounts his own struggles with drug addiction, detailing the progression from marijuana to harder substances.
    • He discusses the psychological and physical effects of cocaine and its impact on decision-making.
    • Diaz provides insights into the drug culture of his youth and the dangers of drug use.
    • The topic delves into the personal and societal consequences of drug addiction and the complex relationship between individuals and substances.
15. The Black Market for Prescription Drugs:
    • Diaz sheds light on the vast black market for prescription drugs, fueled by addiction and demand.
    • He discusses the origins of the opioid crisis and the role of pain clinics in fueling it.
    • Diaz highlights the dangers of the black market and the risks involved in procuring drugs illegally.
    • The topic explores the illegal distribution networks, the economic factors driving them, and the consequences of drug abuse.
16. The Drug Trade and the CIA:
    • Diaz delves into conspiracy theories surrounding the CIA’s involvement in the drug trade, specifically involving Barry Seal.
    • He discusses the alleged collaboration between the CIA and various cartels, including Pablo Escobar.
    • Diaz presents a complex picture of government involvement in drug trafficking, raising questions about corruption and morality.
    • The topic delves into the murky world of geopolitics, international drug trafficking, and the potential for government collusion.
17. The Legacy of Fidel Castro:
    • Diaz discusses Fidel Castro’s rise to power in Cuba and the impact of his regime.
    • He delves into Castro’s revolutionary tactics and his controversial relationship with the Soviet Union.
    • Diaz provides a critical perspective on Castro’s legacy, highlighting both his positive and negative contributions.
    • The topic explores the political and social complexities of revolution, dictatorship, and the lasting impact of historical figures.
18. The World of Pool:
    • Diaz describes the intricate world of professional pool, including tournaments, side bets, and the culture of hustling.
    • He recounts his own experiences playing pool and the skills he learned from Max Albertley.
    • Diaz discusses the different levels of play and the competitive nature of the sport.
    • The topic delves into the subculture of pool, the competitive spirit, and the role of skill and strategy.
19. The Evolution of Comedy:
    • Diaz reflects on the changing landscape of comedy, from the boom of the 1980s to the current climate.
    • He discusses the “bubble” of comedy in Boston and the factors that contributed to its burst.
    • Diaz analyzes the impact of comedy specials and the need for constant evolution in material.
    • The topic explores the artistic and economic pressures facing comedians and the evolution of the industry.
20. The Importance of Friendship and Mentorship:
    • Diaz emphasizes the significance of friendship and mentorship in his comedic journey.
    • He acknowledges the influence of fellow comedians like Joe Rogan, Ari Shafir, and Bert Kreischer.
    • Diaz discusses the shared experiences and support that shape a comedian’s growth.
    • The topic highlights the importance of community and collaboration in creative pursuits.
21. The Power of Stand-Up Comedy:
    • Diaz emphasizes the transformative power of stand-up comedy, both for the comedian and the audience.
    • He shares stories of his early experiences and the impact of mentors like Paul Mooney.
    • Diaz expresses his passion for comedy and the joy he finds in performing.
    • The topic explores the unique role of stand-up comedy in society, providing humor, reflection, and social commentary.
22. The Comedy Store and its Culture:
    • Diaz discusses the iconic Comedy Store in Los Angeles, its significance, and its unique culture.
    • He shares his experiences performing there and the camaraderie he finds among fellow comics.
    • Diaz highlights the importance of the Comedy Store as a training ground and a hub for comedic talent.
    • The topic explores the cultural and historical significance of the Comedy Store and its role in shaping the comedy landscape.
23. The Future of Comedy:
    • Diaz expresses his optimism about the future of comedy, highlighting the increasing popularity of stand-up.
    • He discusses the role of the internet in expanding the reach of comedy and the emergence of new comedic voices.
    • Diaz shares his vision for his own comedic career and his upcoming comedy special.
    • The topic explores the evolution of comedy in the digital age and its potential for continued growth and innovation.

Memorable Quotes

• “When you’re young in Cuba, they pick you. It’s not like you wake up and go, ‘I wanna be a wrestler.’ No. They look at you and go, ‘You look like you could go wrestle.'” – Diaz describes the selective nature of Cuba’s wrestling program.
• “His father took him out of boxing and put him in a dance for, like, several years. A Ukrainian traditional dance style. Apparently, they were talking about it on one of those HBO shows. For, like, four years, think he just danced.” – Rogan discusses the unconventional training method Lomachenko’s father employed.
• “I think when he fought Michael Bisping, my own idea, I think his focus was a little off, maybe two little away. I think he was dating rock stars and hanging out in Hollywood.” – Diaz offers his perspective on Luke Rockhold’s mindset during the Bisping fight.
• “This is like a total amount of training, five years of MMA training, fighting for the heavyweight title. Annie’s the favorite. He’s the favorite of a guy who’s already defended it twice. I mean, it’s crazy. That’s how talented he is.” – Diaz highlights the extraordinary talent and rapid rise of Francis Ngannou.
• “That’s what Joey Diaz is drops out. Right? How do I look about the truth? Because the truth is fascinating. The truth is two boys were murdered. And the coroner, the official report they gave to the parents, was that they had fallen asleep on the train tracks.” – Diaz reveals a shocking story of corruption and murder involving Barry Seal’s drug operation.