JRE #736 – Brendan Schaub & Bryan Callen

Joe Rogan Podcast #736: Brendan Schaub & Bryan Callen

This podcast features a lively discussion between Joe Rogan, Brendan Schaub, and Bryan Callen, delving into a wide range of topics from personal experiences to controversial UFC storylines. Provocative and humorous moments abound, with the trio engaging in playful banter and deep dives into their respective areas of expertise. Underlying themes explore the nature of masculinity, the pursuit of fitness and self-improvement, and the evolving landscape of combat sports.

Major Topics and 4-Point Summaries:

1. Propecia Side Effects:
   1. Joe Rogan discusses his experience with Propecia, a medication for hair loss, and the potential side effects he encountered, including a decline in sexual performance.
   2. Brendan Schaub mentions Ari Shafir’s severe depression, which he later attributed to Propecia use.
   3. Bryan Callen, however, claims Propecia enhances his sexual drive and performance, leading to a humorous exchange about the contrasting experiences.
   4. The discussion highlights the potential for varying responses to medications and the importance of individual experiences.
2. Aging and Maintaining Appearance:
   1. The conversation shifts to aging and how celebrities like Pamela Anderson and Cindy Crawford maintain their attractiveness.
   2. Joe Rogan expresses fascination with the regenerative properties of a new collagen treatment, claiming it could potentially reverse aging.
   3. Brendan Schaub jokes about the possibility of women resorting to cryogenics to preserve their youthful appearance.
   4. This topic delves into societal expectations of beauty and the lengths people are willing to go to combat aging.
3. The Future of Medical Technology:
   1. Joe Rogan discusses the rapid advancements in medical technology, particularly in tissue regeneration.
   2. He highlights the potential for treating spinal injuries and the successful transplantation of penises.
   3. The conversation explores the ethical and social implications of such advancements, raising questions about overpopulation and access to expensive treatments.
   4. The discussion paints a picture of a future where medical technology could potentially cure almost any ailment, but also creates complex challenges.
4. UFC Title Contender Selection:
   1. The trio analyzes the UFC’s system for determining title contenders, highlighting perceived inconsistencies and potential biases.
   2. Joe Rogan argues that a more transparent and objective algorithm could be used, drawing comparisons to boxing’s sanctioning bodies.
   3. Brendan Schaub questions the UFC’s rationale for granting immediate rematches, particularly after decisive knockouts, using examples like Frankie Edgar and Jose Aldo.
   4. This segment delves into the intricate power dynamics within the UFC, questioning the fairness and transparency of its decision-making processes.
5. Jose Aldo’s Controversial Knockout:
   1. Joe Rogan expresses his belief that Jose Aldo deserves a rematch against Conor McGregor, citing his 10-year reign as champion.
   2. He highlights the possibility that Aldo’s knockout was a fluke, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of MMA.
   3. Brendan Schaub counters by suggesting that Aldo’s performance was affected by steroid use, sparking a debate about the prevalence of performance-enhancing drugs in MMA.
   4. The discussion centers on the fairness of title contenders and the ongoing struggle against performance-enhancing drugs in combat sports.
6. Conor McGregor’s Training Regimen:
   1. Joe Rogan discusses Conor McGregor’s unique training regimen, focusing on his work with movement coach Ido Portal.
   2. He describes Portal’s unconventional training methods, which emphasize natural movement and body control, comparing it to the Hickson Gracie style of jiu-jitsu.
   3. Brendan Schaub initially expresses skepticism about Portal’s methods but eventually acknowledges their potential benefits for McGregor’s fighting style.
   4. This segment explores the increasing importance of specialized training and the role of unconventional methods in developing elite athletes.
7. The Power of Social Media:
   1. Joe Rogan argues that fighters can leverage social media to build their brand and connect with fans, citing Conor McGregor’s success as a prime example.
   2. He highlights the potential for fighters to generate revenue through content creation and sponsorships, independent of the UFC’s control.
   3. Brendan Schaub agrees that social media is a powerful tool for fighters, but expresses frustration with the UFC’s restrictions on athlete sponsorships.
   4. The discussion examines the shifting landscape of combat sports marketing and the growing influence of social media in athlete branding.
8. The Rise of Conor McGregor:
   1. Joe Rogan expresses awe at Conor McGregor’s meteoric rise to stardom, arguing that he is arguably the biggest star in combat sports history.
   2. He highlights the chaotic scene at the MGM Grand after McGregor’s victory over Jose Aldo, where thousands of Irish fans stormed the casino.
   3. Brendan Schaub emphasizes McGregor’s charisma and marketing savvy, suggesting that he is bigger than the UFC itself.
   4. The conversation explores the impact of a global phenomenon like McGregor on the future of combat sports and the potential for athletes to transcend their respective organizations.
9. The Holly Holm vs. Ronda Rousey Rematch:
   1. Joe Rogan predicts that the rematch between Holly Holm and Ronda Rousey will be a highly anticipated and intense affair.
   2. He expresses concern about Rousey’s ability to recover mentally and physically after her devastating knockout loss.
   3. Brendan Schaub emphasizes Holm’s superior striking skills and attributes her victory to effective game-planning and training.
   4. The discussion revolves around the psychological impact of a significant loss on an athlete’s performance and the potential for a dramatic rematch.
10. The Importance of Team and Training:
    1. Joe Rogan emphasizes the crucial role of coaching and training partners in the success of elite MMA fighters.
    2. He highlights the talent and expertise of Greg Jackson’s team, which includes Holly Holm, Jon Jones, and Luke Rockhold.
    3. Brendan Schaub acknowledges the importance of a strong support system, emphasizing the benefits of training with high-level athletes like Daniel Cormier and Cain Velasquez.
    4. This segment underlines the increasing complexity of MMA training and the need for a well-rounded team to maximize an athlete’s potential.
11. Jon Jones’ Redemption Arc:
    1. Joe Rogan discusses Jon Jones’ recent troubles and his ongoing quest for redemption.
    2. He acknowledges the mistakes Jones has made but expresses optimism about his commitment to turning his life around.
    3. Brendan Schaub highlights the allure of a comeback story and the potential for Jones to become a more mature and respected athlete.
    4. The discussion delves into the complexities of human nature and the potential for redemption, even after significant setbacks.
12. The EBI Invitational Tournament:
    1. Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub discuss their experience at the EBI Invitational Tournament, created by Eddie Bravo.
    2. They praise the unique ruleset that emphasizes submission grappling and promotes exciting and unpredictable matches.
    3. They highlight the event’s popularity among jiu-jitsu enthusiasts and the growing popularity of submission-focused grappling competitions.
    4. This segment explores the evolving landscape of combat sports and the renewed focus on grappling techniques and strategies.
13. The Importance of Work Ethic:
    1. Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub discuss the importance of work ethic in achieving success, comparing their demanding schedules to those of successful entrepreneurs.
    2. They emphasize the importance of setting goals and maintaining motivation, drawing inspiration from individuals like Kevin Hart and Eddie Bravo.
    3. They agree that a passion for their work fuels their relentless drive and makes their busy schedules more manageable.
    4. The conversation highlights the value of dedication, perseverance, and finding enjoyment in challenging pursuits.
14. The Challenges of Stand-Up Comedy:
    1. Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub discuss the challenges of writing new material for stand-up comedy and the temptation to rely on older, proven jokes.
    2. They acknowledge the importance of pushing creative boundaries and the risk involved in introducing new material to audiences.
    3. They compare the feeling of performing new material to the discomfort of sparring in MMA, highlighting the creative and personal growth that comes with embracing challenges.
    4. This segment explores the constant evolution of comedic performance and the ongoing search for fresh and engaging material.
15. The Future of Combat Sports:
    1. Joe Rogan speculates on the potential for fighters to become more autonomous in their careers, controlling their own sponsorships and earning potential.
    2. He expresses hope that the UFC will adapt to the evolving landscape of combat sports and provide fighters with more opportunities.
    3. Brendan Schaub highlights the growing influence of social media in combat sports marketing and the potential for fighters to build their own brands independent of organizations.
    4. The discussion ponders the future of combat sports, exploring the potential for athletes to gain more control and leverage their influence in the ever-changing world of entertainment.

Memorable Quotes:

1. “I gotta be honest with you guys. I sold my dick like a bullet. I’ll be honest with you guys to take it all the time, and my dick is always hard. I’m hard right now.” – Bryan Callen’s playful declaration about Propecia’s alleged effects on his sexual drive.
2. “You’re built like this. This is huge. Dude, I took my shirt off, dumbass.” – Brendan Schaub’s humorous response to Joe Rogan’s comment about his physique.
3. “I think we’ll always be attracted to round soft surfaces fighting, any kind of penetration, and it’ll get our attention always.” – Joe Rogan’s comedic observation about the enduring appeal of violence and combat sports.
4. “I just do punching to set up my takedown so I can do jiu-jitsu because I don’t wanna hurt my opponent. I wanna be able to train the next day.” – Damian Maia’s respectful and humble approach to martial arts.
5. “When you get knocked dead like that, you need a long time off. You need at least 6 months off.” – Joe Rogan’s opinion on the need for extended recovery after a knockout in MMA.