JRE #730 – Demetrious Johnson

This podcast dives into the world of Demetrious Johnson, a mixed martial artist widely considered one of the greatest fighters of all time. From his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise in the UFC, Johnson shares insights into his training philosophy, weight-cutting practices, and thoughts on the sport’s evolution. Provocative topics include the IV ban controversy, the impact of performance-enhancing drugs, and the importance of mental fortitude. Underlying themes explore the dedication required for elite athleticism, the complexities of the fight business, and the evolution of MMA from a rough-and-tumble spectacle to a sophisticated sport.

Podcast Topics and Summaries

1. Demetrious Johnson’s Training Philosophy

• Johnson credits his success to his coach, Matt Hume, who emphasizes well-roundedness and avoiding unnecessary damage.
• Hume instilled a multi-discipline approach in Johnson, exposing him to various martial arts to prepare him for any opponent.
• Johnson highlights Hume’s meticulous attention to detail, overseeing even his diet and conditioning, leading to a significant shift in his fighting.
• Johnson expresses deep admiration for Hume’s coaching skills, calling him one of the best, and highlighting his enduring athleticism even at 49 years old.

2. The IV Ban and Its Impact on Weight Cutting

• Johnson supports the IV ban, believing it will encourage fighters to compete closer to their natural weight classes.
• He acknowledges the challenges of weight cutting, especially for smaller fighters like himself, but emphasizes the importance of proper hydration and diet.
• Johnson believes the ban will force fighters to prioritize health and longevity, as excessive weight cutting can lead to injuries and compromised performance.
• He suggests alternative solutions, like supervised IVs with blood testing, to address concerns about performance-enhancing drug use while allowing for safe rehydration.

3. Performance-Enhancing Drugs and Their Impact on Fighting

• Johnson discusses the prevalence of PEDs in MMA, acknowledging that many fighters have used them in the past, and expressing his stance against their use.
• He highlights the impact of PEDs on recovery, allowing fighters to endure more punishment and potentially prolong their careers, but emphasizes the ethical concerns and potential for masking other substances.
• Johnson shares a personal anecdote about an opponent who tested positive for EPO after a particularly brutal fight, emphasizing the difference PEDs can make in terms of endurance and recovery.
• He argues that while PED use may enhance performance, it compromises the integrity of the sport and creates an unfair advantage, ultimately harming the athletes’ health and the sport’s reputation.

4. The Mental Fortitude Required for MMA

• Johnson emphasizes the importance of mental strength in fighting, highlighting the need to remain focused and calm, especially when facing high-pressure situations.
• He shares his own approach, focusing on the present moment and detaching himself from the emotional outcomes of fights, allowing him to maintain clarity and composure.
• Johnson contrasts his mental approach with those who get overly emotional or let pressure affect their performance, emphasizing the importance of controlling emotions and staying grounded.
• He acknowledges the mental toll of fighting and the potential for burnout, emphasizing the need for a healthy balance between passion and self-preservation.

5. The Evolution of MMA and Its Increasing Sophistication

• Johnson highlights the significant evolution of MMA from its early days to its current state, noting the increased athleticism, technical proficiency, and strategic depth of modern fighters.
• He compares the sport’s progression to other sports like football, where the core elements remain the same, but the skill level and athleticism have advanced considerably.
• Johnson emphasizes the need for well-roundedness in MMA, requiring fighters to develop skills in striking, grappling, and takedowns to succeed at the highest level.
• He argues that the sport’s evolution is driven by constant innovation and adaptation, requiring fighters to stay ahead of the curve and constantly improve their skills.

6. The Importance of Coaching and Finding the Right Mentors

• Johnson stresses the crucial role of coaching in MMA, emphasizing the importance of finding mentors who understand the intricacies of the sport and can guide fighters to reach their full potential.
• He highlights the value of coaches like Matt Hume, who possess a deep understanding of various martial arts and can provide comprehensive training programs.
• Johnson emphasizes the importance of a strong coach-fighter relationship built on trust and respect, enabling fighters to push their limits and achieve remarkable results.
• He acknowledges the importance of finding coaches who can adapt their training methods to the individual needs and strengths of each fighter.

7. The Rise of the “Brawler” vs. the “Technician” in MMA

• Johnson discusses the contrasting styles of fighting, highlighting the “brawler” who relies on aggression and power, and the “technician” who prioritizes precision and strategy.
• He argues that while brawlers can be exciting, their style often leads to more damage and can be less sustainable in the long run.
• Johnson praises fighters like Warren McDonald, who exemplified technical mastery and demonstrated that effective fighting doesn’t have to be boring.
• He believes that the ideal MMA fighter combines both aggression and strategy, using their skills to dominate opponents while minimizing unnecessary risk.

8. The Value of Rest and Recovery in Fighting

• Johnson emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery, advocating for a structured training schedule that includes designated rest days to allow the body to heal and prevent injuries.
• He highlights the common misconception among fighters that being a “tough guy” means pushing through pain and ignoring the need for rest, often leading to long-term damage.
• Johnson shares his own experience with injuries, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing healing before returning to intense training.
• He believes that a well-planned recovery strategy is essential for maximizing performance and extending a fighter’s career.

9. The Controversial Reebok Deal and its Impact on Fighters’ Finances

• Johnson discusses the Reebok deal, which standardized fighter apparel and eliminated individual sponsorship opportunities.
• He acknowledges the positive aspects of the deal, like streamlining the process for fighters and eliminating conflicts over sponsorships, but criticizes its impact on fighters’ earnings.
• Johnson shares his own experiences with sponsorships, noting that he has gone into fights without any sponsorship money despite achieving victories.
• He advocates for a more equitable system that allows fighters to benefit from their own brand building and marketing, while also ensuring fair compensation for their efforts.

10. The Importance of Mental Health and Support Systems in Fighting

• Johnson discusses the psychological toll of fighting, emphasizing the importance of mental health and a strong support system to help fighters cope with the pressures of the sport.
• He highlights the dangers of relying solely on fighting for income and the need for alternative sources of income and education to create a safety net.
• Johnson encourages aspiring fighters to consider a balanced approach, pursuing education and other interests alongside fighting to ensure a secure future.
• He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience and the need to navigate the emotional highs and lows of fighting with a healthy perspective.

11. The Business of MMA and the Role of Promotions

• Johnson discusses the business side of MMA, highlighting the importance of promotions in driving the sport’s popularity and generating revenue.
• He contrasts the UFC’s model with that of boxing, arguing that boxing provides more opportunities for fighters to negotiate lucrative deals and earn a larger share of the profits.
• Johnson expresses concerns about promotions like Bellator, which he believes is more focused on profit than on supporting the athletes and promoting the sport.
• He advocates for a more athlete-centric model in MMA, allowing fighters to have greater control over their careers and receive fair compensation for their contributions to the sport.

12. The Future of MMA and the Need for More Competition

• Johnson believes that the UFC’s monopoly on MMA has created a stagnant environment and advocates for more competition from promotions like Bellator.
• He argues that increased competition would drive innovation, enhance fighter salaries, and ultimately benefit the sport by creating a more dynamic and exciting landscape.
• Johnson highlights the importance of showcasing fighters who are exceptional in specific areas, like grappling or striking, to highlight the sport’s diverse skill sets.
• He believes that a more competitive MMA landscape would encourage promotions to focus on promoting the athletes and their skills, rather than solely on generating profits.

13. The Risks of Traumatic Brain Injury in Fighting

• Johnson expresses serious concerns about traumatic brain injury in MMA, citing his conversations with doctors and witnessing the effects of concussions on fighters.
• He highlights the long-term consequences of repeated head trauma, including depression, hormone imbalances, and cognitive decline.
• Johnson argues that the sport needs to prioritize athlete safety and take a more proactive approach to addressing the risks of head trauma.
• He emphasizes the need for greater awareness, research, and prevention measures to protect fighters from the devastating effects of brain injury.

14. The Challenges of Being a Champion and Maintaining Motivation

• Johnson acknowledges the pressures of being a champion and the constant need to prove oneself, highlighting the mental and physical demands of staying at the top.
• He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a singular focus on fighting, avoiding distractions and external pressures that can derail an athlete’s progress.
• Johnson discusses the importance of having a strong support system and mentors to guide and motivate fighters during their careers.
• He emphasizes the need for athletes to be self-aware and recognize their own limitations, ensuring they are making the right decisions for their well-being and their careers.

15. The Importance of Honesty and Integrity in the Fight Business

• Johnson emphasizes the need for honesty and integrity in the fight business, criticizing promoters who exploit fighters or misrepresent their abilities for financial gain.
• He highlights the importance of transparency and fairness, advocating for a system that rewards fighters for their talent and dedication.
• Johnson encourages fighters to prioritize their own well-being and avoid compromising their values for short-term financial gains.
• He believes that the fight business should prioritize the athletes’ health and safety, while also ensuring that they are properly compensated for their contributions to the sport.

16. Demetrious Johnson’s Approach to Broadcasting and Commentary

• Johnson shares his perspective on becoming a broadcaster for the UFC, acknowledging that it wasn’t his initial ambition.
• He emphasizes his love for the sport and his desire to share his knowledge and insights with fans.
• Johnson expresses his appreciation for the opportunity to call some of the most exciting and memorable fights in MMA history.
• He acknowledges the challenges of commentating on fighters he knows personally, emphasizing the need to maintain professionalism and objectivity.

17. The Future of Demetrious Johnson’s Career

• Johnson discusses his current contract situation and the possibility of leaving the UFC, emphasizing his desire to explore new opportunities and experiences.
• He highlights his passion for learning and exploring different avenues, including streaming on Twitch and potentially opening his own MMA gym.
• Johnson expresses his unwavering love for MMA but suggests that he may not continue as a broadcaster indefinitely.
• He emphasizes his drive to continue growing and learning, both as a fighter and as a person, suggesting that his future may lie in other exciting pursuits.

18. Demetrious Johnson’s Philosophy on Life and Success

• Johnson shares his perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of embracing new experiences, challenging oneself, and staying true to one’s values.
• He highlights the need for balance and self-awareness, recognizing the importance of mental health and well-being alongside pursuing one’s goals.
• Johnson encourages aspiring athletes to prioritize education and develop alternative sources of income, recognizing the risks and uncertainties of a fighting career.
• He advocates for a realistic and grounded approach to success, emphasizing that while financial rewards are important, they should not overshadow the pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment.

Memorable Quotes

• “When Enver, anybody asks me, who’s the best fighter in the world? You’re the guy.” – Johnson’s coach, Matt Hume, expressing his respect and admiration for Johnson’s skills.
• “I’m doing my best to pay these bills. I got I got bills to pay.” – Johnson’s simple and honest response when asked about his motivation for fighting.
• “You only choke me twice a week, like Saturdays and at that point, it was only Saturdays.” – Hume’s humorous and insightful observation about Johnson’s early training commitment.
• “If you wanna make more money, you should go to 135, and I’m like, so let me get this. So you’re saying, I wanna make more money fine at 135. Is that on my contract? is that guaranteed? No. It’s not.” – Johnson’s retort to those who suggest he should move up in weight class for financial gain.
• “My end game is just to tell these people stories, to validate that their pain is real.” – Remini’s clear articulation of her mission to provide a platform for those who have been silenced by Scientology.