JRE #699 – Donald Cerrone

This Joe Rogan podcast episode with Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone dives into a wide range of topics, showcasing the fighter’s unique personality, life experiences, and views on various aspects of life and combat sports. From his unconventional training methods and unique lifestyle to his insightful commentary on the MMA world and beyond, Cerrone provides a captivating listen.

Major Podcast Topics:

1. Cerrone’s Training Philosophy and Lifestyle

• Cerrone’s emphasis on unconventional training, incorporating activities like wakeboarding, snowmobiling, and even training with non-MMA athletes, like Blake Griffin.
• His embrace of a “wild man” lifestyle, characterized by a lack of structure and a focus on experiencing life to the fullest.
• His aversion to traditional training methods, highlighting the importance of finding what works best for the individual athlete.
• Cerrone’s strong belief in his unique training approach, showcasing his confidence in his ability to perform at his peak even without adhering to strict regimens.

2. The Bad Motherfucker Ranch

• Cerrone’s creation of his own training facility, “The Bad Motherfucker Ranch,” as a place for fighters to train and live.
• The ranch’s focus on providing a family atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and support for fighters.
• Cerrone’s unique approach to coaching, prioritizing practical experience and real-world knowledge over strict coaching plans.
• The ranch’s evolution and Cerrone’s vision for its future, reflecting his desire to build a legacy in MMA and create a positive impact on the sport.

3. The Enforcer Role in Hockey and its Absence in Other Sports

• Cerrone’s fascination with the role of enforcers in hockey, comparing it to the lack of such a role in other sports like basketball.
• The unique culture and tradition of hockey, which allows for controlled aggression and fighting within the game.
• Cerrone’s humorous proposition for enforcers in basketball, highlighting the potential for a different type of entertainment and added intensity.
• The contrasting penalties for fighting in different sports, with hockey’s acceptance of fighting as a normal part of the game.

4. The Importance of Mental Training in MMA

• Cerrone’s exploration of the mental game in MMA, acknowledging its crucial role in performance.
• His unconventional approach to mental training, relying on instinct and flow states instead of traditional techniques.
• Cerrone’s unique perspective on achieving a “flow state,” comparing it to a video game experience where he observes himself from an outside perspective.
• His acknowledgment of the challenges of maintaining focus and mental clarity under pressure, especially in high-stakes fights.

5. The Wild World of MMA and its Unique Characters

• Cerrone’s observations on the personalities and quirks of various MMA fighters, including the Diaz brothers, Conor McGregor, and Anderson Silva.
• His appreciation for fighters with distinct personalities, both within and outside the Octagon, highlighting the diverse range of characters in the sport.
• His insights on the psychological impact of trash-talking and its effects on fighters, showcasing how it can influence performance and mental state.
• His reflections on the evolution of MMA, from the early days of “brawling” to the more technical and strategic approach seen today.

6. The Role of the Nevada State Athletic Commission

• Cerrone’s criticisms of the Nevada State Athletic Commission’s handling of Nick Diaz’s marijuana suspension, highlighting perceived unfairness and inconsistencies in their policies.
• His frustration with the power of commission members, who often have no experience in fighting, to make decisions impacting fighters’ careers.
• His argument for a more lenient approach to marijuana use in MMA, considering its potential benefits for recovery and pain management.
• His concerns about the potential for corruption and bias within the commission, raising questions about the integrity of their decisions.

7. The Importance of Friends and Family in MMA

• Cerrone’s emphasis on the value of strong relationships and support systems within MMA, highlighting the importance of having people who understand the sport.
• His close bond with fellow fighters and coaches, including his training partners at “The Bad Motherfucker Ranch” and his family, particularly his grandmother.
• The impact of these relationships on Cerrone’s mental and physical well-being, showcasing the importance of having a strong support network.
• His recognition of the unique challenges faced by fighters, especially in navigating the emotional and psychological aspects of the sport.

8. The Importance of Living Life to the Fullest

• Cerrone’s philosophy of living life to the fullest, embracing adventure, competition, and unconventional experiences.
• His disdain for a “safe” and predictable lifestyle, advocating for pushing boundaries and embracing challenges.
• His belief that happiness comes from pursuing passions and connecting with friends and family.
• Cerrone’s perspective on the fleeting nature of an athletic career, motivating him to make the most of every moment.

9. The Future of MMA

• Cerrone’s insights on the evolution of MMA and the emerging trends in the sport, including the rising popularity of fighters like Conor McGregor.
• His predictions for the future of the sport, including the potential for more unconventional fighters and training methods.
• His belief in the importance of promoting fighters’ personalities and stories, fostering a more entertaining and engaging fan experience.
• Cerrone’s vision for the future of MMA, highlighting the potential for continued growth and diversification.

10. The Wildness of Combat Sports

• Cerrone’s humorous recounting of his “boat rage” incident, highlighting the unpredictable nature of human behavior, especially in heated situations.
• His reflection on the unique challenges and risks associated with a career in combat sports, emphasizing the need for resilience and adaptability.
• His humorous observations on the often-bizarre and outrageous behavior of people involved in combat sports, both fighters and fans.
• Cerrone’s perspective on the importance of maintaining a sense of humor and perspective, even when facing intense competition and pressure.

11. The Importance of Authenticity

• Cerrone’s emphasis on being true to oneself, both within and outside the Octagon, promoting authenticity and self-expression.
• His disdain for fighters who adopt personas or try to be someone they’re not, highlighting the importance of being genuine.
• His appreciation for fighters who embrace their unique quirks and personalities, showcasing the diverse range of individuals in the sport.
• Cerrone’s message of authenticity, encouraging people to be comfortable in their own skin and live life on their own terms.

12. The Power of Storytelling and Connection

• Cerrone’s emphasis on the importance of storytelling and personal connections within the MMA community.
• His desire to share his experiences and insights with younger fighters, providing guidance and support.
• The power of human connection and shared experiences in shaping individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding.
• Cerrone’s belief that the stories of fighters can inspire and motivate others, showcasing the power of sharing personal journeys.

13. The Challenges of Fame and Public Perception

• Cerrone’s experience with the negative aspects of fame, including online harassment and misunderstandings about his lifestyle and personality.
• His advice on navigating the world of social media and online commentary, highlighting the importance of choosing who to engage with.
• His perspective on the disconnect between online personas and real-life interactions, showcasing the potential for misinterpretation and judgment.
• Cerrone’s belief in maintaining a healthy balance between public perception and personal authenticity, promoting a genuine and positive approach to fame.

14. The Impact of Marijuana

• Cerrone’s use of medicinal marijuana for pain management, particularly for his knee.
• His open and honest discussion of his use, promoting a more open and understanding dialogue about marijuana.
• His concerns about the Nevada State Athletic Commission’s stance on marijuana, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach.
• Cerrone’s perspective on the potential benefits of marijuana, both for athletes and individuals in general.

15. The Importance of Family and Legacy

• Cerrone’s deep respect for his grandmother and her unwavering support throughout his career.
• His desire to create a positive legacy in MMA, not just through his fighting but also through the creation of his ranch.
• His recognition of the importance of family and community in shaping an individual’s life and aspirations.
• Cerrone’s commitment to leaving a lasting impact on the sport and creating a positive environment for future generations of fighters.

16. The Nature of Reality and Perception

• Cerrone’s humorous discussion of various topics, including conspiracy theories and the possibility of encountering leprechauns.
• His willingness to embrace the absurd and explore the boundaries of reality, showcasing a playful and open-minded approach to life.
• His observations on the human tendency to create narratives and interpretations, highlighting the subjective nature of truth and perception.
• Cerrone’s perspective on the importance of embracing a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging a constant exploration of the unknown.

17. The Importance of Hard Work and Determination

• Cerrone’s relentless pursuit of excellence in MMA, demonstrating his dedication to training and pushing his limits.
• His admiration for other athletes who share this same drive and determination, highlighting the importance of perseverance.
• His belief that success comes from hard work and consistent effort, showcasing the value of discipline and commitment.
• Cerrone’s message of inspiration, encouraging listeners to embrace their own challenges and strive for greatness.

18. The Value of Friendship and Camaraderie

• Cerrone’s genuine affection and respect for his friends and fellow fighters, highlighting the importance of camaraderie in a competitive environment.
• His willingness to support and encourage his friends, both within and outside the Octagon, showcasing a strong sense of loyalty.
• His belief in the power of friendship to provide strength and motivation, emphasizing the importance of having a strong support system.
• Cerrone’s message of camaraderie, encouraging listeners to cultivate meaningful relationships and create a sense of community.

19. The Importance of Embracing Differences

• Cerrone’s open-mindedness and acceptance of diverse personalities and lifestyles, promoting a culture of inclusivity and understanding.
• His appreciation for fighters with unique approaches to training and competition, showcasing the diverse range of talents in MMA.
• His belief in the value of diversity, enriching the sport and creating a more dynamic and engaging experience for fans.
• Cerrone’s message of unity, encouraging listeners to embrace differences and celebrate individuality.

20. The Importance of Giving Back

• Cerrone’s commitment to providing opportunities for younger fighters, creating a supportive environment for them to develop their skills.
• His desire to leave a positive impact on the sport, extending beyond his own career and into the lives of future generations of fighters.
• His belief in the power of mentorship and support in shaping individuals and communities, highlighting the importance of giving back.
• Cerrone’s message of service, encouraging listeners to contribute to their communities and make a difference in the lives of others.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “I’m constantly wakeboarding, jumping snowmobiles over the top of my car. I can’t wait for El Nino, baby. Come on, call is gonna be unreal this year. I cannot wait.” – Cerrone’s love for adventure and unconventional training is evident in this quote, showcasing his thrill-seeking nature.
• “Don’t tell me what you can’t do.” – Cerrone’s relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries is exemplified in this quote, illustrating his unwillingness to accept limitations.
• “Fighting is not that serious. Fellow takes it too serious. Too serious, man.” – Cerrone’s unique perspective on the sport is evident in this quote, encouraging a lighter and more enjoyable approach to fighting.
• “I’m like a video game in a third person. So I see myself from behind my head playing myself.” – This quote provides a fascinating glimpse into Cerrone’s unique mental state during fights, highlighting his ability to achieve a “flow state” and observe himself from an outside perspective.
• “I want the guys that push me. I need those. I need that in my life.” – Cerrone’s desire for constant growth and improvement is evident in this quote, showcasing his commitment to surrounding himself with challenging and inspiring individuals.