JRE #384 - Ian McCall

8/13/2013

Joe Rogan Experience #384 – Ian McCall – Podcast Topics

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features a conversation with Ian McCall, an American mixed martial artist competing in the flyweight division. The podcast delves into various topics, ranging from McCall’s personal life and experiences to his perspectives on the MMA industry. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key topics and underlying themes explored:

1. Ian McCall’s Background and Early Life:

McCall grew up in a wealthy, white community and was heavily involved in fist-fighting with his friends.
He was a skilled fighter from a young age and participated in various combat sports, including Kung Fu, wrestling, and boxing.
McCall’s early life was marked by a rebellious streak and a penchant for trouble, often involving stealing cars and engaging in reckless behavior.
His troubled past and self-destructive tendencies underscore the importance of discipline and guidance in shaping young lives.

2. The Underground Forum and its Impact on MMA:

The Underground (UG) forum is a popular online community for MMA fans and fighters, serving as a platform for discussions, news, and sometimes, controversial threads.
The forum’s influence on the sport is significant, with the ability to shape public opinion and even affect fighters’ careers.
McCall acknowledges the UG’s power, highlighting its ability to generate trends and memes that quickly spread throughout the MMA community.
This discussion explores the role of online communities in shaping and influencing the world of combat sports.

3. The Mental Game in MMA:

McCall emphasizes the crucial role of mental strength and stability in achieving success as an MMA fighter.
He shares his personal struggles with mental health and acknowledges how it impacted his performance and decision-making in the past.
He views his past mistakes as lessons learned and emphasizes the importance of mental wellbeing in overcoming challenges and achieving greatness.
This section delves into the psychological aspect of combat sports, highlighting the importance of mental resilience and self-control.

4. The Flyweight Division in MMA:

McCall discusses the unique challenges and complexities of the flyweight division, emphasizing its technical nature and high level of skill.
He praises the technical proficiency and evolving skills of fighters like Demetrious Johnson, highlighting their ability to adapt and excel in a fast-paced, technical environment.
The discussion explores the unique dynamics of the lighter weight classes, emphasizing the importance of precision, speed, and constant movement.
This segment underscores the intricacies of MMA as a sport, showcasing the specific demands and challenges faced by fighters at different weight classes.

5. The Evolution of MMA Training and Conditioning:

McCall reflects on the significant evolution of MMA training and conditioning over the years, highlighting the shift towards a more scientific and professional approach.
He acknowledges the contributions of coaches and trainers like Mackie Shilstone, who revolutionized the sport by emphasizing the importance of strength training and specialized conditioning techniques.
He also discusses the increasing role of supplements and Neutropics in athlete performance and recovery, sparking a conversation about the potential benefits and ethical considerations of these practices.
This section explores the ongoing development of MMA, examining the evolving methodologies and technologies used to enhance performance and prepare fighters for competition.

6. The Importance of Discipline and Mindfulness:

McCall emphasizes the vital role of discipline and mindfulness in achieving success in both MMA and life.
He credits wrestling as a key element in his personal journey, providing him with the structure and discipline he needed to overcome his past struggles.
He also highlights the importance of finding something to be passionate about and dedicating oneself to pursuing excellence.
This discussion highlights the transformative power of discipline and the role it plays in personal growth and achieving goals.

7. The Impact of Bullying and Adversity:

McCall openly discusses his experiences with bullying, emphasizing the significant impact it can have on a person’s development and self-esteem.
He acknowledges the potential for bullying to lead to self-destructive behaviors and even mental health issues.
He believes that his experiences with bullying, combined with his desire to prove himself, ultimately fueled his drive to become a successful fighter.
This section explores the complex relationship between adversity and resilience, illustrating how overcoming challenges can shape a person’s character and motivate them to achieve greatness.

8. The Importance of Fear in MMA:

McCall discusses the importance of fear and intimidation in MMA, arguing that fear can be a powerful motivator for both fighters and fans.
He believes that the best fighters are those who evoke fear in their opponents, creating a sense of awe and respect.
This conversation highlights the primal nature of combat sports and the role of fear in generating excitement and anticipation for fans.
McCall acknowledges the dark side of fear but argues that it is an integral part of the sport’s appeal.

9. The Culture of Violence and its Role in MMA:

The podcast delves into the cultural roots of violence, exploring the historical significance of fist fights and the role of competition in shaping societal norms.
McCall suggests that fist fights can be a rite of passage for young men, allowing them to confront their fears and learn to navigate conflict.
He acknowledges the ethical complexities of violence but argues that MMA provides a controlled environment for channeling aggression and competing in a safe and regulated manner.
This segment delves into the sociological implications of violence, examining its historical context and exploring the ways in which MMA can serve as a outlet for channeling aggression.

10. The Importance of Finding a Balance:

McCall emphasizes the importance of finding balance in life, particularly when pursuing a demanding career like MMA.
He acknowledges the challenges of transitioning from a fighter’s life to a more “normal” existence and emphasizes the importance of building healthy habits and maintaining a stable personal life.
He credits his current relationship and the birth of his child as significant factors in his personal growth and transition to a more balanced life.
This section underscores the need for self-reflection and the importance of prioritizing personal wellbeing, even amidst the intense demands of a competitive career.

11. The Ethics of Performance-Enhancing Drugs:

The conversation delves into the ethical considerations surrounding the use of performance-enhancing drugs in MMA, exploring the complexities of drug testing and the impact of PEDs on athlete performance.
McCall acknowledges his own past use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and human growth hormone (HGH), sharing his personal experiences and perspectives on these practices.
He acknowledges the potential benefits and risks of PEDs, arguing that the ethical considerations must be carefully weighed against the competitive advantages they offer.
This section explores the ongoing debate surrounding PEDs in sports, examining the ethical dilemmas and the need for a more nuanced understanding of their impact.

12. The Importance of Role Models and Mentorship:

McCall discusses the importance of having positive role models and mentors in shaping one’s character and career path.
He credits BJ Penn as a major influence on his fighting style and acknowledges the importance of learning from experienced fighters who have achieved success.
He also emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people who can provide guidance and encouragement.
This section highlights the value of mentorship in personal and professional development, emphasizing the importance of learning from those who have come before.

13. The Future of MMA Judging and Scoring:

McCall expresses concern about the current judging system in MMA, highlighting inconsistencies and potential biases.
He advocates for a more transparent and objective scoring system, suggesting the inclusion of punch stats and potentially even incorporating fan input through online voting.
He believes that a more comprehensive and data-driven approach to judging would improve the fairness and accuracy of fight decisions.
This section explores the need for reform within the judging system, advocating for a more objective and transparent process that reflects the nuances of MMA competition.

14. The Cultural Impact of MMA:

The podcast touches on the global reach and cultural impact of MMA, highlighting its diverse fan base and growing popularity around the world.
McCall shares his experiences fighting in Brazil and discusses the unique passion and intensity of Brazilian fans.
He also explores the cultural differences in fan behavior and the evolving attitudes towards MMA in various countries.
This segment explores the global reach and cultural significance of MMA, highlighting its ability to transcend borders and connect people from diverse backgrounds.

15. The Importance of Embracing the Journey:

McCall shares his philosophy on life and the importance of embracing the journey, highlighting the value of learning from mistakes and continuing to strive for growth.
He emphasizes that success is not a destination but a process, a continuous journey of self-discovery and improvement.
He encourages listeners to focus on progress rather than perfection, embracing the challenges and setbacks that come along the way.
This section underscores the importance of perseverance and the transformative power of embracing the journey, highlighting the value of learning from mistakes and continuously seeking growth.

16. The Role of the State Athletic Commissions:

The conversation delves into the role of state athletic commissions in regulating and overseeing MMA, highlighting the complexities of navigating bureaucratic processes and the challenges of implementing changes within these organizations.
McCall emphasizes the need for a more standardized and informed approach to judging and refereeing, advocating for greater transparency and accountability within the commission system.
He believes that improvements in judging and refereeing would enhance the fairness and integrity of the sport, reducing controversial decisions and improving fan satisfaction.
This segment explores the political and administrative aspects of MMA, highlighting the challenges of achieving reform within state-level regulatory bodies.

17. The Impact of Weight Cutting:

McCall discusses the grueling and potentially dangerous practice of weight cutting in MMA, sharing his personal experiences and highlighting the risks involved.
He acknowledges the pressure fighters face to make weight, but expresses concern about the potential for weight cutting to compromise health and performance.
He believes that the current weight-class structure could be optimized to reduce the need for extreme weight cuts and minimize the risks involved.
This segment sheds light on the physical and psychological toll of weight cutting in MMA, raising awareness about the potential dangers and advocating for changes in the weight-class system.

18. The Power of Positive Influence:

McCall emphasizes the importance of having positive influences in one’s life, particularly during formative years.
He acknowledges the impact of his current relationship and the birth of his child in fostering a more stable and grounded life.
He believes that having supportive relationships and positive role models can be instrumental in guiding individuals towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
This section highlights the transformative power of human connection and the importance of surrounding oneself with people who inspire and uplift.

19. The “California Jock Grapevine”:

McCall introduces the concept of the “California Jock Grapevine” a network of connections and information within the Southern California fitness and sports community.
He describes the grapevine as a powerful force that can influence trends, spread news, and connect people within the industry.
This discussion provides a glimpse into the informal networks and social dynamics within the world of MMA and fitness.
McCall highlights the importance of building relationships and fostering a sense of community within these networks.

20. The Fascination with Extreme Environments and Subsistence Living:

The conversation explores the human fascination with extreme environments, specifically focusing on the allure of Alaska and its unique challenges.
McCall shares his experiences with hunting and fishing, emphasizing the primal satisfaction and sense of connection to nature that these activities provide.
He discusses the importance of preserving wildlife and the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world.
This segment explores the human desire to connect with nature and the challenges of living in harsh environments, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of those who choose to inhabit these spaces.

21. The Impact of Extreme Weather:

McCall discusses the impact of extreme weather, specifically focusing on the challenges of living and surviving in extremely cold environments.
He shares stories about the harsh conditions in Alaska and the importance of being prepared for the extreme cold.
He acknowledges the resilience and fortitude of people who inhabit these areas, highlighting their ability to adapt and thrive in challenging conditions.
This section explores the human capacity for resilience and the ability to adapt to extreme environments, showcasing the unique challenges and rewards of living in harsh climates.

22. The Importance of Self-Reflection and Personal Growth:

McCall encourages self-reflection and personal growth, emphasizing the value of learning from mistakes and striving for continuous improvement.
He acknowledges his own past struggles with addiction and the importance of finding a path towards a healthier and more balanced life.
He believes that sharing his story can inspire others to make positive changes in their own lives.
This section emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the ongoing process of personal growth, highlighting the value of learning from experiences and striving for continuous improvement.

23. The Allure of the Unknown and the Power of Storytelling:

McCall discusses the fascination with the unknown and the power of storytelling, particularly in relation to his near-death experience from a drug overdose.
He encourages listeners to explore the possibilities of the unknown and to find meaning in their own experiences.
He recognizes the transformative power of storytelling and its ability to connect people and inspire change.
This section highlights the human desire to understand the world around us and the power of stories to shape our perceptions and inspire us to seek meaning and purpose.

24. The Legacy of MMA and the Future of the Sport:

The podcast concludes with a discussion about the legacy of MMA and its future, emphasizing the sport’s evolution and the role of athletes and fans in shaping its trajectory.
McCall expresses optimism about the future of MMA, highlighting the increasing level of skill and athleticism among fighters and the growing global fan base.
He believes that MMA is a sport that will continue to evolve and captivate audiences for years to come.
This final segment underscores the enduring appeal of MMA and its potential to continue to grow and evolve as a sport and a cultural phenomenon.

5 Memorable Quotes from the Podcast:

“I was a horrible child. I literally was. I spent most of my life being a horrible person, doing horrible person things.” – McCall reflects on his troubled past, acknowledging his reckless and self-destructive behavior.
“I owe my life to two people. My wrestling coach is one of them. That guy saved me.” – McCall highlights the importance of discipline and structure in his life, emphasizing the role wrestling played in guiding him towards a more positive path.
“I started getting into martial arts just because I was scared. I just wanted people to be scared of me.” – McCall reveals the underlying motivation behind his early involvement in combat sports, highlighting the role fear played in shaping his initial pursuit of martial arts.
“I’m a walking mistake. Go to the gym, bitch. Exactly. The gym first.” – McCall emphasizes the importance of discipline and dedication, encouraging listeners to prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing.
“I think I think they’re beneficial for everybody. Yeah. I think I’m I’m not a perfect person. I never been a person perfect person. I made a lot of fucking mistakes. And I think in talking about mistakes, not only do I get, like, some jokes and relief out of them, like, other people can you could realize, like, oh, he’s sucked at life too. Yeah.” – McCall acknowledges his imperfections and encourages listeners to embrace their own flaws, finding humor and solace in shared experiences.

JRE #384 – Ian McCall