JRE #771 – Eddie Bravo

This podcast features Eddie Bravo, a renowned jiujitsu black belt, music producer, and author. The conversation with Joe Rogan spans a wide range of topics, from the intricacies of jiujitsu and the latest developments in MMA to the complexities of human behavior and the nature of reality. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride of insightful analysis, controversial opinions, and a healthy dose of humor.

1. Connor McGregor’s Rise and Fall:

   • McGregor’s audacity to move up weight classes, a rare move even for elite fighters, is lauded, drawing comparisons to BJ Penn’s legendary career trajectory.
   • The significance of weight cutting in MMA is emphasized, highlighting its crucial role in achieving an advantage at the elite level.
   • McGregor’s ability to knock out opponents is highlighted, but his jujitsu skills are questioned after his submission loss to Nate Diaz.
   • McGregor’s defeat is viewed as a learning experience, paving the way for a potential rematch against Nate Diaz or a showdown with the more physical Dos Anjos.

2. Holly Holm’s Upset Victory:

   • Holm’s strategic fight against Ronda Rousey, utilizing counter-striking techniques and negating Rousey’s aggression, is praised as a masterful performance.
   • Holm’s ground game is critiqued, highlighting her vulnerability against opponents with strong grappling skills, as seen in her fight against Miesha Tate.
   • Holm’s incredible comeback victory against Tate, securing a submission with a rear-naked choke in the final round, is lauded as one of the greatest upsets in UFC history.
   • Holm’s future prospects are discussed, with suggestions that she should improve her ground game and potentially consider venturing into the world of jiu-jitsu.

3. The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu:

   • The recent surge in popularity of leg locks in jiu-jitsu is explored, highlighting the emergence of a new generation of leg lock experts.
   • The effectiveness of leg locks, particularly in submission-only tournaments, is acknowledged, but the potential for injuries is also discussed.
   • The resistance to leg locks within the traditional Brazilian jiu-jitsu community is addressed, with arguments for the importance of embracing a more comprehensive skillset.
   • The potential impact of leg locks on the future of MMA is discussed, with the emergence of fighters like Gary Tonon and Ryan Hall demonstrating the growing prominence of these techniques.

4. EBI: Eddie Bravo Invitational:

   • Bravo’s EBI, a submission-only grappling tournament, is highlighted as a platform that encourages innovative techniques and rewards pure grappling ability.
   • The unique overtime format of EBI, which forces fighters into disadvantageous positions to encourage escapes and submissions, is explained and praised for its exciting outcomes.
   • The EBI’s success in fostering a passionate community of jiu-jitsu enthusiasts, evident in the packed crowds and high energy at their events, is celebrated.
   • The future of EBI is discussed, with plans for upcoming events and a growing interest from UFC Fight Pass, indicating a promising future for this innovative grappling spectacle.

5. Conspiracy Theories and the Anunaki:

   • The existence of a tenth planet, Planet X, and its potential impact on our solar system is explored, drawing upon scientific evidence and ancient myths.
   • The controversial theory of the Anunaki, ancient extraterrestrial beings who allegedly genetically engineered humanity, is discussed, generating both skepticism and fascination.
   • The role of the History Channel’s “Ancient Aliens” series in popularizing these ideas is examined, with both praise for its entertainment value and criticism for its speculative nature.
   • The underlying themes of human curiosity, the search for meaning, and the potential implications of discovering extraterrestrial life are explored.

6. The Government’s Dark Secrets:

   • The CIA’s notorious Operation Mockingbird, involving the infiltration of media outlets for propaganda purposes, is discussed as a real example of government manipulation.
   • The equally disturbing Operation Midnight Climax, which involved the CIA dosing citizens with LSD, is revealed as a true historical event.
   • The parallels between the CIA’s past activities and the current climate of suspicion surrounding government agencies are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.
   • The role of information and data in exposing corruption is discussed, drawing parallels to the UFC’s crackdown on performance enhancing drugs, suggesting that greater transparency in all areas of government is possible.

7. John D. Rockefeller: The Ultimate Oil Baron:

   • John D. Rockefeller’s ruthless business tactics and his role in shaping the modern oil industry are discussed, shedding light on the origins of big oil’s dominance.
   • Rockefeller’s involvement in alcohol prohibition, motivated by his desire to crush the ethanol industry and promote gasoline consumption, is revealed as a lesser-known fact.
   • The extent of Rockefeller’s influence on education, strategically investing in universities to shape the minds of future generations, is explored.
   • The lasting impact of Rockefeller’s legacy, from the rise of big oil to the shaping of American society, is discussed, raising questions about the balance of power and the potential for corporate influence.

8. The Trump Phenomenon:

   • Trump’s mastery of media manipulation and his ability to generate headlines with outrageous statements is analyzed, acknowledging his unique brand of political theater.
   • Trump’s policies and rhetoric are discussed, with both support and criticism for his views on immigration, trade, and national security.
   • The potential for Trump to disrupt the political status quo is explored, raising questions about his ability to bring about real change or simply exacerbate existing tensions.
   • The underlying themes of populism, social media, and the growing disconnect between traditional institutions and the public are examined.

9. The Reality of Bigfoot:

   • The debate about Bigfoot’s existence is addressed, with both skeptics and believers presented, highlighting the enduring fascination with this elusive creature.
   • The scientific evidence for Bigfoot is scrutinized, examining eyewitness accounts, footprints, and purported genetic evidence, while acknowledging the lack of conclusive proof.
   • The possibility of Bigfoot being an interdimensional being is explored, adding a layer of intrigue and mystery to the discussion.
   • The deeper implications of Bigfoot’s potential existence are pondered, touching upon the interconnectedness of nature, the limits of human knowledge, and the ongoing quest for understanding the unknown.

10. The Deep Sea’s Terrifying Secrets:

    • The awe-inspiring size and predatory nature of great white sharks are discussed, highlighting their place as apex predators in the marine ecosystem.
    • The intelligence and dominance of killer whales are explored, with evidence of their ability to hunt and even kill great white sharks.
    • The implications of killer whales’ growing presence in the Arctic, driven by melting ice and the availability of prey, are examined, raising concerns about the impact on local ecosystems and communities.
    • The fascinating world of underwater life and the ongoing exploration of the deep sea are emphasized, with a sense of wonder and the potential for new discoveries.

11. The Power of Storytelling:

    • The importance of sharing stories, both personal and historical, in shaping our understanding of the world is emphasized.
    • The impact of social media and online platforms in spreading both truth and misinformation is acknowledged, highlighting the need for critical thinking and media literacy.
    • The power of storytelling to connect with audiences on a deeper level and inspire change is celebrated.
    • The importance of sharing stories as a way to preserve history, challenge assumptions, and foster empathy and understanding is emphasized.

Throughout the podcast, Rogan and Bravo consistently demonstrate their deep passion for exploration, whether it’s delving into the complexities of human nature, unraveling the mysteries of the universe, or simply engaging in lighthearted banter. Prepare to be challenged, entertained, and perhaps even a little bit enlightened as you join their captivating conversation.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Who the fuck will fight anybody? Who who will just jump up? The last guy was BJ.” – Joe Rogan, acknowledging Connor McGregor’s audacity and drawing comparisons to BJ Penn’s legendary career.
• “He really, really believed he could fucking he would be slammed. You’re going down.” – Joe Rogan, capturing Connor McGregor’s unwavering confidence and aggressive fighting style.
• “It’s not that hard to take down after all. I thought she’d be harder to take down. But, you know, Misha took her down.” – Joe Rogan, highlighting Miesha Tate’s improved wrestling skills in her fight against Holly Holm.
• “I’ve shown some people that don’t ever do jujitsu. I’ve showed them a a Marcela Garcia match, and you watch choke somebody, and it’s it’s so spectacular to watch because his movements are so impressive.” – Eddie Bravo, highlighting the beauty and artistry of Marcelo Garcia’s jiu-jitsu techniques.
• “You can’t put Bigfoot on camera, bro. He knows about cameras. It’s not gonna happen, man. It’s not gonna appear where’s a camera or disbelief.” – Eddie Bravo, offering a humorous explanation for Bigfoot’s elusive nature, suggesting that he is aware of human observation and prefers to remain hidden.