21-Aug-19
This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features Everlast, a Grammy Award-winning American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Joe and Everlast embark on a conversation that ranges from the unique Irish culture to the absurdity of the modern world, weaving in topics of MMA, music, and personal experiences. Throughout the podcast, Joe and Everlast tackle provocative and controversial themes, exploring the absurdity of modern society, the beauty of authentic artistry, and the complexities of personal journeys.
Major Topics and Themes:
- Connor McGregor’s Irish Identity and Fighting Style:
- Everlast highlights McGregor’s raw Irish spirit and its influence on his fighting style, showcasing his ability to handle both wins and losses with bravado.
- McGregor’s wildness and ability to push boundaries makes him a fascinating figure, both inside and outside the Octagon.
- Joe and Everlast discuss McGregor’s rise to fame and fortune, analyzing his strategy for success, which has disrupted the established UFC system.
- McGregor’s ability to handle pressure and perform at his best under intense scrutiny is a testament to his mental fortitude and resilience.
- The Rise of MMA and Its Cultural Impact:
- Everlast recounts his early admiration for McGregor, witnessing his potential as a fighter.
- They delve into the evolution of MMA, noting its shift from underground events to mainstream entertainment.
- Joe and Everlast highlight the passionate and dedicated fanbase, specifically the Irish fans, who travel globally to support their fighters.
- The discussion touches upon the UFC’s control over the sport and its strategy for maximizing profits.
- The UFC’s Business Practices and Fan Engagement:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the UFC’s aggressive tactics for combating illegal streaming and its influence on the fan experience.
- They explore the UFC’s unique approach to social media, particularly its hesitancy to showcase knockouts on its platforms, which raises questions about its engagement with fans.
- They analyze the UFC’s strategy for maximizing profits through pay-per-view events and its reliance on high-profile fighters.
- Joe and Everlast discuss the UFC’s global reach and its ability to captivate audiences worldwide.
- The Dynamics of Fighting:
- Joe and Everlast analyze the Stipe Miocic vs. Daniel Cormier fight, breaking down the strategies, techniques, and moments that defined the match.
- They discuss the impact of taking a significant blow and how it can affect a fighter’s ability to recover and continue fighting.
- They reflect upon the respect and camaraderie between fighters, particularly the friendship between Cormier and Miocic despite their competitive rivalry.
- They discuss the challenges of being a fighter, particularly the physical and mental toll it takes on the body.
- The Legacy of Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones:
- Joe and Everlast discuss Cormier’s impressive career and his championship titles, but acknowledge the asterisk placed on his light heavyweight belt due to the interim championship.
- They analyze the rivalry between Cormier and Jon Jones, highlighting the intensity and magnitude of their battles.
- They discuss Jones’s dominance in the light heavyweight division and his claim to be the true champion.
- They explore the dynamics of competition and how it fuels the ambition and drive of fighters.
- The Remarkable Transformation of Rumble Johnson:
- Joe and Everlast discuss Johnson’s impressive journey from a small 170-pound fighter to a massive 278-pound heavyweight, highlighting his adaptability and resilience.
- They discuss Johnson’s decision to retire from fighting and his embrace of a new lifestyle, including his love for weed.
- They analyze Johnson’s power and athleticism, reflecting on his ability to dominate opponents with his brute force.
- They consider the potential for Johnson’s return to the UFC as a heavyweight, exploring the possibilities of a title run.
- The Wrestling World and the Impact of DC:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the unique skills of wrestlers and how they translate into fighting, highlighting Cormier’s dominant wrestling abilities.
- They analyze the different levels of wrestling and the strength required to excel at the highest levels, such as Olympic competition.
- They highlight Cormier’s dominance in the heavyweight division and his remarkable record, having only lost one round in his career.
- They discuss the importance of understanding one’s position within the wrestling world and the respect that is given to those at the top of the hierarchy.
- The World of Pro Wrestling:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the cultural intersection between wrestling and hip hop, highlighting the popularity of wrestling within the hip hop community and its influence on music.
- They explore the growing popularity of pro wrestling among various entertainment circles, including musicians, rappers, and stand-up comedians.
- They analyze the impact of iconic figures like Rick Flair and their contribution to popular culture.
- They delve into the history of pro wrestling and its evolution from a niche genre to mainstream entertainment.
- The Power of Storytelling and Connection:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the importance of storytelling and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
- They explore the importance of authentic storytelling and the power of sharing personal experiences.
- They discuss the role of humor and its ability to connect with audiences on a universal level.
- They emphasize the importance of finding connections with others through shared experiences and understanding.
- The Influence of Music and Its Impact on Life:
- Everlast discusses his unique process of songwriting, emphasizing its visual nature and the way he brings ideas to life through imagery.
- Joe and Everlast explore the importance of collaboration in music and the way it can elevate an artist’s work.
- They discuss the influence of music on personal journeys and the way it can provide inspiration, comfort, and motivation.
- They analyze the power of music to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
- The Absurdity of the Modern World:
- Joe and Everlast delve into the bizarre world of internet conspiracy theories, highlighting the influence of algorithms and misinformation.
- They explore the complexities of navigating truth and misinformation in a world where information is constantly evolving.
- They discuss the impact of social media and its potential to create echo chambers and reinforce biases.
- They analyze the challenges of staying informed and critical in a world saturated with information.
- The Urgency of Climate Change:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the urgency of climate change and the importance of addressing its impact on the planet.
- They explore the complex nature of climate change and the challenges of finding solutions and implementing change.
- They analyze the resistance to acknowledging climate change and the impact of misinformation and denial.
- They express their concern for the future of the planet and the consequences of inaction.
- The Search for Meaning and Purpose:
- Joe and Everlast explore the philosophical questions about the meaning of life and the search for purpose.
- They discuss the complexities of navigating personal journeys and the challenges of finding meaning in a chaotic world.
- They analyze the impact of personal experiences and how they shape our worldview and values.
- They consider the importance of staying present and appreciating the moments of joy and connection that life offers.
- The Power of Perspective and Connection:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the importance of perspective and the way it influences our understanding of the world.
- They explore the complexities of human relationships and the importance of finding understanding and connection.
- They emphasize the power of empathy and the need to see the world through the lens of others.
- They analyze the importance of acknowledging shared experiences and the strength that comes from connecting with others.
- The Unexpected Nature of Life:
- Everlast recounts his experience with a heart valve replacement, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating each moment.
- Joe and Everlast discuss the impact of unexpected events and the way they can force us to re-evaluate our priorities and values.
- They analyze the importance of seeking out help and support during times of need.
- They reflect upon the gratitude for the small moments of joy and connection that life offers.
- The Power of Community and Support:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the importance of community and the support that comes from connecting with others.
- They highlight the importance of building relationships that offer comfort, guidance, and love.
- They analyze the power of shared experiences to strengthen bonds and create lasting connections.
- They reflect upon the gratitude for the people who have helped them navigate life’s challenges.
- The Importance of Authenticity:
- Everlast discusses the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing one’s own unique journey.
- He emphasizes the need to be authentic in one’s creative expression and to avoid conforming to societal expectations.
- Joe and Everlast discuss the value of self-expression and the courage it takes to be vulnerable and share one’s true self with the world.
- They explore the importance of finding a balance between authenticity and the need for connection.
- The Absurdity of Fame:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the bizarre world of fame and the unexpected consequences that come with it.
- They analyze the impact of celebrity culture and the pressure it places on individuals to conform to societal expectations.
- They highlight the importance of maintaining a sense of perspective and grounding amidst the whirlwind of fame.
- They discuss the importance of remaining true to oneself amidst the temptations and pressures of the entertainment industry.
- The Nature of Reality and the Search for Truth:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the complexities of determining truth in a world filled with misinformation and manipulation.
- They explore the impact of social media and its ability to create echo chambers and reinforce biases.
- They discuss the importance of critical thinking and the need to question information sources.
- They analyze the challenges of finding truth in a world where information is constantly evolving.
- The Power of the Unexpected:
- Joe and Everlast discuss the importance of embracing the unexpected and the way it can lead to new opportunities and experiences.
- They reflect upon the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of staying open to new possibilities.
- They analyze the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world.
- They discuss the importance of being present and appreciating the small moments of joy that life offers.
Memorable Quotes:
- “That’s what made whiskey, you know. So the Irish would so the Irish would never rule the world. When you see, it got, like, a guy like Connor MacGregor, that part of what is him is Irish. He’s like a pure, like, brilliant Irish.”
- “He eats pressure. He said that guy eats pressure. He just eats it. He goes he just he just goes in there and the the more pressure he experiences, the better he can perform.”
- “You can’t almost invest your thought in it because it can get like, whoa. It’s it’s it’s really kind of a part of of — Understood. — top culture. It’s ingrained on a on on an it’s an American phenomenon in worldwide.”
- “You know, I’m on my whole new shit. My slogan is fucking. I’m 50 man. That’s my new shit, dog. I’m on, like, I don’t you gonna rattle me, man, I’m 50. I don’t even care. How’s that?”
- “I don’t even know if that’s the proper phrase, but, like, just when I look at as an art form, you like, that comparison when you, like, it’s the music is this. My comedy is so much more precious because you work it to that point.”