JRE #900 – Joseph Valtellini

by

1/18/2017







Joe Rogan Experience #900 – Joseph Valtellini

This podcast dives into the world of kickboxing with former world champion Joseph “Bazooka Joe” Valtellini. It explores the excitement, the dangers, and the future of the sport, contrasting it with MMA. Provocative topics include the potential dangers of kickboxing, the effectiveness of low kicks, and the controversial use of CBD for concussion recovery. Underlying themes highlight the mental and physical toll of combat sports, the importance of proper coaching and training, and the challenges of navigating a career in a less mainstream sport.

1. The Excitement and Underrated Nature of Kickboxing:

  • Joe Rogan and Joseph Valtellini agree that kickboxing, particularly Glory Kickboxing, is one of the most exciting sports in the world.
  • They believe it’s perplexing why it isn’t more popular, especially considering its straightforward nature compared to MMA.
  • Valtellini asserts that kickboxing is more entertaining than MMA due to its emphasis on striking and finishing fights, particularly through the use of low kicks.
  • They discuss how kickboxing’s focus on leg kicks and constant pressure can lead to more violent and exciting encounters.

2. The Dangers and Long-Term Effects of Concussions in Kickboxing:

  • Valtellini reveals his personal experience with concussions, resulting in a hospitalization and a period of being confined to a dark room for three weeks.
  • He discusses the potential for nerve damage and the mental health challenges that can arise from concussions, including depression.
  • He contrasts his aggressive fighting style with the more defensive approach of fighters like Floyd Mayweather, acknowledging the risks associated with his style.
  • Valtellini emphasizes the importance of considering the long-term health consequences of fighting, especially when weighing the financial rewards.

3. The Benefits and Controversy of CBD for Concussion Recovery:

  • Valtellini shares his personal experience with CBD oil, which helped him manage the pain and symptoms of his concussion.
  • He credits CBD with enabling him to stop taking prescription painkillers, which he believes were negatively impacting his mental state.
  • He discusses the potential benefits of CBD for a range of health issues, including inflammation, arthritis, and even cancer, and expresses frustration with the current regulatory environment surrounding it.
  • He asserts that the limitations placed on CBD are driven by pharmaceutical companies seeking to protect their interests and that the scientific evidence supports its benefits.

4. The Importance of Proper Coaching and Training in Combat Sports:

  • Valtellini believes that good coaching is crucial for developing high-level fighters, particularly in MMA.
  • He criticizes the prevalent approach in some MMA gyms of focusing solely on tiring fighters out with repetitive combinations, emphasizing the need for strategic training and coaching.
  • He highlights the importance of footwork, distance control, countering, and diverse defensive techniques in achieving success.
  • He advocates for a more holistic approach to training, emphasizing the need for adaptability, technical proficiency, and mental resilience.

5. The Role of Low Kicks in Kickboxing and MMA:

  • Valtellini argues that low kicks are often underestimated, especially in MMA, and highlights their effectiveness as a weapon, particularly against wrestlers.
  • He emphasizes the importance of timing and strategy in executing low kicks, suggesting that they can be used to disrupt an opponent’s balance and slow them down.
  • He discusses how MMA fighters often lack the leg conditioning of kickboxers and are therefore more susceptible to the effects of low kicks.
  • Valtellini believes that low kicks are a key weapon in any striking-based combat sport and should be more prominent in MMA.

6. The Evolution of Kickboxing Rules and Regulations:

  • Valtellini highlights the inconsistencies and sometimes illogical rules in kickboxing, particularly in Ontario, Canada.
  • He points out how certain techniques, such as low kicks and sweeps, are prohibited in Ontario despite being allowed in other jurisdictions.
  • He expresses frustration with the outdated and often arbitrary nature of these rules.
  • Valtellini believes that the inconsistent regulations hinder the growth and development of the sport in Canada.

7. The Importance of Building a Personal Brand in Kickboxing:

  • Valtellini stresses the importance of self-promotion for kickboxers, particularly in a sport with limited financial opportunities.
  • He argues that fighters should be more proactive in promoting themselves through social media and other channels.
  • He emphasizes the need to create engaging content and showcase their personalities to gain a wider audience.
  • Valtellini believes that increased self-promotion will lead to greater exposure and growth for the sport.

8. The Future of Kickboxing and the Rise of Glory:

  • Valtellini expresses optimism about the future of kickboxing, particularly with the expansion of Glory Kickboxing.
  • He highlights Glory’s commitment to providing consistent events and expanding its reach through various media platforms.
  • He believes that the organization’s focus on high-level competition and promotion will help to attract a wider audience.
  • Valtellini sees Glory as a key force in revitalizing the sport and making it more mainstream.

9. The Transition Between Kickboxing and Muay Thai:

  • Valtellini discusses the challenges of transitioning between kickboxing and Muay Thai, which involves adding new weapons like elbows and knees.
  • He acknowledges that the transition from Muay Thai to kickboxing is generally easier because the fighter retains the core striking techniques.
  • He highlights the success of many Muay Thai fighters who have transitioned to kickboxing, demonstrating that the fundamental skills are transferable.
  • He believes that the different rule sets require fighters to adapt their styles and strategies accordingly.

10. The Potential of Connor McGregor vs. Floyd Mayweather:

  • Valtellini discusses the highly anticipated boxing match between Connor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather, acknowledging Mayweather’s superior boxing skills but also McGregor’s mental toughness and ability to handle pressure.
  • He believes that in a boxing match, Mayweather would likely have the advantage, but acknowledges McGregor’s size advantage and potential to cause an upset.
  • He emphasizes the stark difference between boxing and MMA, pointing out McGregor’s likely dominance if the fight were to take place under MMA rules.
  • He highlights the potential for a highly entertaining and unpredictable matchup between two of the biggest names in combat sports.

11. The Importance of Mental Training in Combat Sports:

  • Valtellini emphasizes the crucial role of mental training in combat sports, particularly in managing stress and anxiety.
  • He describes his own approach to mental training, which involves focusing on his strengths and avoiding overthinking the fight.
  • He acknowledges the importance of developing mental resilience to withstand pressure and uncertainty.
  • Valtellini believes that a strong mental game is essential for success in any combat sport.

12. The Role of Strength and Conditioning in Combat Sports:

  • Valtellini discusses the importance of sport-specific strength and conditioning, warning against the potential dangers of using CrossFit as a primary training method.
  • He believes that CrossFit can lead to overuse injuries and emphasizes the need for a more balanced and tailored approach to weight training.
  • He outlines his own periodization program, which focuses on building muscle mass, developing power, and enhancing explosiveness.
  • Valtellini believes that proper strength and conditioning is essential for maximizing performance and minimizing the risk of injury.

13. The Importance of Rest and Recovery in Combat Sports:

  • Valtellini emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery for fighters, particularly in the context of overtraining and potential injury.
  • He argues that fighters should be more mindful of their bodies and listen to their signals, taking time off when necessary.
  • He believes that overtraining can compromise the immune system and lead to illness, ultimately hindering performance.
  • Valtellini stresses the need for a balanced approach to training, prioritizing recovery and preventing burnout.

14. The Benefits of Yoga for Combat Athletes:

  • Valtellini discusses the benefits of yoga for combat athletes, particularly for improving mobility, flexibility, and balance.
  • He highlights the potential of yoga to reduce injuries and improve overall health and well-being.
  • He challenges the negative stereotypes associated with yoga and encourages fighters to embrace its benefits.
  • Valtellini believes that yoga can be a valuable tool for combat athletes, enhancing their performance and longevity.

15. The Potential of Movement Training for Combat Sports:

  • Valtellini discusses the potential benefits of movement training, such as gymnastics and breakdancing, for combat athletes.
  • He highlights the importance of developing body awareness, coordination, and dexterity, particularly in MMA.
  • He believes that movement training can enhance a fighter’s ability to move efficiently and effectively, both offensively and defensively.
  • Valtellini suggests that incorporating movement training into a fighter’s regimen could lead to significant improvements in performance.

16. The Importance of a Well-Rounded Martial Arts Education:

  • Valtellini emphasizes the value of having a well-rounded martial arts education, encompassing multiple disciplines.
  • He argues that understanding different fighting styles and techniques can make a fighter more adaptable and unpredictable.
  • He cites the example of George St-Pierre, a highly successful MMA fighter who excelled in multiple disciplines, demonstrating the benefits of a diverse skillset.
  • Valtellini believes that becoming a well-rounded martial artist requires a commitment to continuous learning and exploration.

17. The Importance of Avoiding Overcomplication in Training:

  • Valtellini advocates for simplicity and effectiveness in training, warning against the pitfalls of overcomplicating things.
  • He criticizes the tendency in some combat sports to add unnecessary exercises and techniques, arguing that the fundamentals should be prioritized.
  • He believes that a streamlined approach to training can be more effective and less prone to injury.
  • Valtellini emphasizes the importance of focusing on the essential elements of fighting, rather than chasing the latest trends.

18. The Role of Genetics in Combat Sports:

  • Valtellini acknowledges the significant role of genetics in combat sports, recognizing that some individuals have natural advantages.
  • He discusses how certain genetic traits, such as power, speed, and durability, can influence a fighter’s success.
  • He emphasizes that while training can enhance abilities, natural talent plays a significant role in determining potential.
  • Valtellini believes that understanding genetics can inform training strategies and help fighters focus on their strengths.

19. The Benefits of Cryotherapy and Sauna:

  • Valtellini discusses the benefits of cryotherapy and sauna for combat athletes, particularly for reducing inflammation and promoting recovery.
  • He highlights the scientific evidence supporting the positive effects of these therapies on the body.
  • He encourages fighters to explore these modalities as part of their overall recovery regimen.
  • Valtellini believes that these therapies can contribute to improved performance and longevity in combat sports.

20. The Challenges and Rewards of Coaching Combat Athletes:

  • Valtellini discusses the challenges and rewards of coaching combat athletes, highlighting the intense investment required and the emotional connection with fighters.
  • He acknowledges the inherent uncertainty and risk associated with coaching, as fighters ultimately have to perform independently.
  • He believes that a good coach must be able to impart knowledge, build trust, and guide fighters toward their full potential.
  • Valtellini finds coaching to be a deeply rewarding experience, particularly in witnessing the growth and success of his students.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “Kickboxing, especially high-level kickboxing like Glory, is one of the most exciting sports in the world.” – Joe Rogan emphasizes the excitement of the sport.
  • “A good low kick is based off timing. If I’m gonna sit there and lead with a low kick against a wrestler, absolutely, he’s gonna take me down every time. But it’s the timing of the low kick that people need to understand.” – Valtellini explains the strategy behind low kicks.
  • “People think a low kick is a low kick, but it’s not. You gotta think where on the shin are you landing, the lower kick. If you land more of the lower part of your shin, that’s more of a setup. You might want to use your low kick to set up your hands. You might want to have it as a feeler, just as a distraction. If you start landing higher up on the shin, those are more finishing low kicks.” – Valtellini delves into the nuances of low kicks.
  • “I’m not that guy that’s gonna really go out there and say, ‘I’m gonna fight in the UFC!’ … But I’m hoping to one day, obviously, have a build a good, you know, group of guys who are fighting in the UFC. So I would love to have that.” – Valtellini reveals his ultimate coaching goal.
  • “Fighting is like nothing else. I mean, it’s so heartbreaking when you see someone get devastated, smashed, like BJ Penn did against Yahir Rodriguez. But on the other hand, so beautiful when you see what Yahir was able to do to a legend like BJ Penn. I mean, it’s such a … fighting in all forms, whether it’s boxing, Muay Thai, kickboxing, MMA. It’s to me, one of the most engaging things for someone to watch.” – Rogan reflects on the beauty and brutality of combat sports.


 

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