JRE #890 – Fight Breakdown

This podcast, a vibrant and engaging conversation between Joe Rogan, Eddie Bravo, and Brendan Schaub, dives deep into the world of MMA, exploring upcoming fights and delving into controversial, provocative, and viral topics. Underlying themes revolve around the unique personalities of fighters, the importance of storytelling in selling fights, and the challenges faced by athletes in a demanding sport.

Major Topics

1. Darren Crookshank’s Wild Personality and Impact on UFC Storytelling:

• Crookshank’s unique personality, evident in his Instagram posts featuring guns and Japanese women, makes him a standout fighter.
• His offbeat persona provides a compelling narrative that draws fans to his fights, contrasting with the often bland presentation of other fighters.
• The UFC should embrace such individuality and encourage fighters to showcase their personalities to enhance the viewing experience.
• Crookshank’s story highlights the potential of personality in selling fights and adding depth to the sport.

2. The Controversial Nature of Rash Guards in MMA:

• The UFC’s prohibition of rash guards for men raises questions about the logic behind this decision, given that they’re allowed in women’s MMA.
• Rash guards provide a significant advantage in grappling, aiding with grip and preventing skin abrasions.
• The UFC should reconsider this rule, allowing fighters to wear rash guards to enhance performance and potentially create opportunities for more diverse and unique styles.
• This debate highlights the need for the UFC to examine its regulations and make evidence-based decisions that benefit both fighters and fans.

3. The Double Standard in Promoting Amanda Nunes vs. Ronda Rousey:

• The UFC’s promotional efforts for the Rousey-Nunes fight prioritize Rousey’s star power over Nunes’s championship status, creating a perceived bias.
• Nunes, as the current champion and a trailblazing figure in women’s MMA, deserves equal attention and recognition.
• This imbalance undermines the value of championship fights and potentially disenfranchises fans from appreciating Nunes’s story.
• This discussion highlights the delicate balance between champion promotion and individual star power within the UFC, raising questions about fair representation and the importance of celebrating champions.

4. The Debate on the Benefits and Drawbacks of Weight Cutting in MMA:

• Weight cutting in MMA is a contentious practice, with some arguing that it compromises performance and increases injury risk, while others see it as a necessary part of the sport.
• The discussion focuses on the contrasting approaches of fighters like Donald Cerrone, who avoids extreme weight cuts, and Damian Maia, who famously cuts a significant amount of weight.
• While extreme weight cutting may provide a temporary advantage, it can negatively impact performance and potentially lead to health issues.
• This topic highlights the need for the UFC to explore alternative weight management practices and perhaps consider adjusting its current weight class system to minimize the health risks associated with extreme weight cutting.

5. The Debate on Whether Fighters Should Be Required to Participate in Extensive Promotional Activities:

• The podcast explores the debate on the extent to which fighters should be involved in promotional activities, considering the potential for distraction from training and the impact on mental well-being.
• Rousey’s decision to limit her promotional commitments to focus on her fight raises questions about the balance between promoting the fight and respecting a fighter’s preferences.
• While extensive promotional tours may generate buzz, they can also be physically and emotionally draining for fighters, potentially compromising their performance.
• This topic challenges the UFC to find a more balanced approach to promotion, ensuring that fighters are given the space to focus on their training while still generating interest in the fight.

6. The Role of Personality in Selling Fights:

• The discussion highlights the importance of personality and storytelling in attracting and engaging MMA fans.
• Fighters like Conor McGregor demonstrate how compelling personalities and engaging narratives can contribute significantly to the success of a fight.
• The UFC should recognize and encourage fighters with unique personalities, allowing them to showcase their individuality and connect with fans on a deeper level.
• The UFC’s emphasis on storytelling can help create more compelling fights and attract a wider audience.

7. The Prevalence of Fake News and its Impact on Society:

• The podcast delves into the increasing concern about fake news and its potential to manipulate public opinion and sow discord.
• The discussion highlights how fake news can be used for profit, political gain, or to spread misinformation.
• The spread of fake news poses a significant challenge to responsible journalism and the ability to discern truth from falsehood.
• The podcast encourages listeners to be critical consumers of information and to verify sources before accepting information as factual.

8. The Impact of Social Media on Public Discourse:

• The podcast explores the influence of social media on public discourse, examining how it can amplify voices, promote dialogue, but also spread misinformation and division.
• The discussion highlights the potential for social media to be a powerful tool for connecting with others, but also the dangers of echo chambers and filter bubbles.
• The podcast encourages listeners to be mindful of their online interactions and to engage in constructive dialogue while avoiding the spread of misinformation.
• The podcast reflects on the ever-evolving nature of communication in the digital age, urging listeners to be critical and engaged participants in online discourse.

9. The Cultural Significance of Larry the Cable Guy:

• The discussion explores the cultural significance of Larry the Cable Guy and his enduring appeal to a specific demographic, particularly in the Southern United States.
• His redneck persona, while controversial, connects with a segment of the population, highlighting the complexities of humor and representation.
• The podcast reflects on the evolution of humor and how it can be used to connect with and sometimes challenge cultural norms.
• This topic underscores the importance of understanding and navigating cultural differences through humor and the power of shared experiences.

10. The Impact of Extreme Weight Cutting on Fighter Health:

• The podcast discusses the health risks associated with extreme weight cutting in MMA, highlighting how it can lead to dehydration, kidney problems, and other complications.
• The conversation focuses on the case of Cyborg, who has faced criticism for her weight cutting practices and has been open about the challenges she’s faced.
• The podcast calls for a more comprehensive approach to weight management in MMA, promoting safer practices that prioritize fighter health.
• This topic raises ethical questions about the lengths to which fighters are willing to go to compete in a sport known for its physical demands.

11. The Future of MMA and the Role of Submission-Only Events:

• The podcast explores the future of MMA, discussing the potential for submission-only events to gain traction and offer a different type of viewing experience for fans.
• The discussion revolves around EBI, a submission-only grappling event, and its potential to become a successful and sustainable format.
• The podcast acknowledges the challenges faced by submission-only events, such as a lack of widespread popularity and financial backing.
• This topic reflects on the evolving nature of combat sports and the potential for new formats to appeal to a wider audience.

12. The Importance of Respecting Fighters’ Decisions:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of respecting fighters’ decisions, regardless of whether they choose to prioritize promotion, training, or personal well-being.
• The discussion centers around Rousey’s decision to limit her promotional commitments, recognizing her right to choose how she manages her career.
• The podcast highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for fighters, allowing them to make decisions that prioritize their personal and professional goals.
• This topic underscores the need for empathy and understanding within the MMA community, recognizing that fighters have individual needs and preferences.

13. The Legacy of Julio Cesar Chavez:

• The podcast delves into the legacy of Julio Cesar Chavez, a legendary Mexican boxer, and the impact his career has had on the sport.
• The discussion explores the contrast between Chavez’s dominant career and the struggles faced by his son, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., highlighting the complexities of generational talent and the importance of discipline.
• The podcast provides a glimpse into the world of boxing, showcasing the excitement and intensity of the sport.
• This topic reminds listeners of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the contributions of legendary athletes.

14. The Risks of Professional Boxing:

• The podcast raises concerns about the risks associated with professional boxing, particularly for older fighters, highlighting the potential for long-term health consequences.
• The discussion centers on the incident involving Bernard Hopkins, who suffered a dangerous fall during a fight, underscoring the inherent dangers of the sport.
• The podcast advocates for safer practices in boxing, emphasizing the need to protect fighters from serious injuries.
• This topic challenges viewers to consider the ethics of allowing older fighters to compete in a sport that carries significant risks.

15. The Importance of Storytelling in Sports:

• The podcast underscores the importance of storytelling in sports, recognizing how compelling narratives can enhance the fan experience and attract new audiences.
• The discussion revolves around the concept of “the underdog story,” highlighting how narratives about fighters overcoming adversity can resonate deeply with fans.
• The podcast acknowledges the power of storytelling to create emotional connections and inspire viewers.
• This topic underscores the importance of understanding the human element in sports and how narratives can make events more engaging and memorable.

16. The Enduring Legacy of Muhammad Ali:

• The podcast touches upon the enduring legacy of Muhammad Ali, a legendary boxer who transcended the sport and became a symbol of social change.
• The discussion reflects on Ali’s impact on boxing, his influence on civil rights, and his lasting impact on popular culture.
• The podcast provides a glimpse into the world of boxing, showcasing the importance of understanding the sport’s historical significance.
• This topic underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating the contributions of historical figures who have shaped our world.

17. The Cultural Significance of the Iron Sheik:

• The podcast explores the cultural significance of the Iron Sheik, a legendary professional wrestler, recognizing his impact on the sport and popular culture.
• The discussion acknowledges Sheik’s unique persona, his wrestling skills, and his lasting legacy within the world of professional wrestling.
• The podcast provides a glimpse into the world of professional wrestling, showcasing the importance of understanding the sport’s history and the characters who shaped it.
• This topic underscores the importance of celebrating the contributions of individuals who have left a mark on entertainment and popular culture.

18. The Rise of the Coyote:

• The podcast delves into the unexpected rise of the coyote, discussing its remarkable adaptation and spread across the United States.
• The discussion highlights the coyote’s intelligence, resilience, and ability to thrive in urban environments, challenging the notion of humans as the dominant species.
• The podcast provides a glimpse into the fascinating world of wildlife, showcasing the complexities of animal behavior and adaptation.
• This topic underscores the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of nature and the impact of human activity on wildlife populations.

19. The Role of Drugs in Sports:

• The podcast delves into the controversial topic of drugs in sports, focusing on the case of Cyborg, who tested positive for a substance that she claims was prescribed for weight-cutting issues.
• The discussion explores the complexities of drug use in sports, balancing the desire for fair competition with the need to understand the individual circumstances of athletes.
• The podcast raises questions about the effectiveness of drug-testing programs and the impact of strict regulations on athletes.
• This topic highlights the ongoing debate about the use of performance-enhancing substances in sports and the need for balanced and ethical approaches to ensure fairness and athlete safety.

20. The Importance of Mental Health in Sports:

• The podcast touches upon the importance of mental health in sports, acknowledging the psychological toll that competition can take on athletes.
• The discussion highlights how athletes’ decisions, such as weight cutting or promotional commitments, can be influenced by mental health factors.
• The podcast emphasizes the need to create a supportive environment for athletes to address mental health challenges and to promote mental well-being.
• This topic underscores the importance of recognizing the human element in sports and the need to support athletes beyond their physical performance.

Memorable Quotes

• ”Crunchhaw is a great story, man. ” – Joe Rogan acknowledges Crookshank’s unique personality and its potential to captivate fans.
• “It’s not like she doesn’t have a highlight reel. It’s not like she’s grabbing ahold of these girls and just sorta winning by staying on top and do nothing.” – Rogan defends Amanda Nunes’s fighting style, emphasizing her power and skill.
• “Part of being a fighter is selling the fight.” – Rogan acknowledges the importance of promotional activities for fighters, highlighting the business side of MMA.
• “People don’t like when certain people talk shit about them. They don’t like it.” – Rogan reflects on the sensitivity surrounding generalizations about regions and demographics.
• “They’re funding them, and they have control of the media. Who fucking knows what the fuck is going on?” – Rogan expresses skepticism about the government’s motivations in combating terrorism, highlighting the complexities of the situation.