20-Jul-22
JRE MMA Show #127 with Mikey Musumeci – Podcast Topics
This podcast features Joe Rogan interviewing Mikey Musumeci, a five-time world champion Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt currently signed to ONE Championship. The conversation touches upon a range of topics, from Mikey’s unique training regime and diet to his perspective on the evolution of Jiu-Jitsu and the growing opportunities in the sport. Underlying themes explore the importance of passion, discipline, and a deep understanding of one’s body and mind in achieving success.
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Mikey’s Unique Training Regimen:
- Mikey primarily trains with hobbyist Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, preferring their energy and focus over competitors.
- This unorthodox approach involves teaching his training partners to defend his moves, forcing him to constantly adapt and find new solutions.
- Mikey’s training often involves drilling for 12 hours a day, demonstrating his dedication to mastering techniques.
- He believes his unconventional training method has allowed him to develop incredible technical proficiency and a deep understanding of Jiu-Jitsu.
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The “Mickey Lock”: A New Leg Lock Submission:
- Mikey invented the “Mickey Lock” by experimenting with different ways to control the foot during heel hook attempts.
- This innovative technique involves using the neck instead of the armpit for leverage, offering a unique and effective way to secure the submission.
- The Mickey Lock has gained recognition among high-level black belts, highlighting its potential for effectiveness and innovation in the sport.
- Mikey’s story exemplifies the creative spirit and continuous evolution of Jiu-Jitsu.
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The Future of Jiu-Jitsu:
- Mikey believes that ONE Championship’s foray into professional Jiu-Jitsu signifies a major turning point for the sport.
- The organization’s focus on submission-based matches and the absence of points for positional control incentivizes finishing fights and creates an exciting spectacle for viewers.
- Mikey’s belief in ONE Championship’s impact on Jiu-Jitsu’s growth is underscored by his own decision to move to Singapore to train with Chatri Sityodtong, the organization’s founder.
- The potential for increased recognition, financial opportunities, and a dedicated platform for elite Jiu-Jitsu athletes is fueling the sport’s future.
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Mikey’s Extraordinary Diet:
- Mikey follows a unique diet, consuming primarily pasta and pizza, and only eating once a day, typically in the evening.
- This unconventional approach, which he attributes to his Italian heritage and a desire to find a sustainable way to fuel his demanding training regime, has garnered both fascination and skepticism.
- Despite concerns about nutritional deficiencies and potential negative effects on performance, Mikey’s diet seems to be working for him, allowing him to maintain his weight, energy levels, and overall health.
- Mikey’s diet stands as a testament to the individual nature of nutrition, emphasizing the need to find what works best for one’s body and lifestyle.
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The Power of Passion:
- Mikey’s dedication to Jiu-Jitsu, evident in his high training volume and commitment to his craft, highlights the power of passion in achieving success.
- His deep love for the sport fuels his desire to learn, evolve, and push his limits.
- Mikey’s commitment to impacting the next generation of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners demonstrates the transformative power of sharing passion and knowledge.
- The podcast showcases the inspiring potential of pursuing one’s passions with unwavering dedication.
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The Importance of Mental Toughness:
- Mikey’s ability to push through pain and fatigue, both physically and mentally, is a testament to his exceptional mental fortitude.
- His experiences with intense training regimens, extreme weight cuts, and even severe bouts of COVID-19 demonstrate his resilience and determination.
- Mikey’s willingness to embrace discomfort and challenge himself continuously reflects the importance of mental toughness in overcoming obstacles and achieving goals.
- His story emphasizes the power of mental resilience and the ability to break through limitations.
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Embracing Individuality:
- Mikey’s unique training and dietary approaches underscore the importance of individuality in achieving success.
- His commitment to finding what works best for his body and mind, rather than adhering to conventional wisdom, is a testament to the power of self-discovery.
- The podcast highlights the diversity of paths to greatness in Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing the need to embrace individual strengths and preferences.
- Mikey’s journey encourages listeners to explore their own unique paths to achieving their goals.
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The Social Impact of Jiu-Jitsu:
- Mikey’s emphasis on the positive social impact of Jiu-Jitsu, providing a positive outlet for individuals and fostering a sense of community, emphasizes the sport’s value beyond competition.
- His desire to use his platform to inspire others and help them achieve their goals speaks to the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu on personal growth and well-being.
- The podcast highlights the role of Jiu-Jitsu in promoting self-discipline, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
- Mikey’s story underscores the social benefits of the sport and its potential to create positive change in individuals’ lives.
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The Power of Continuous Learning:
- Mikey’s passion for learning languages, cultures, and new skills, even amidst his demanding training schedule, demonstrates the importance of intellectual curiosity.
- His dedication to understanding the science behind Jiu-Jitsu and his body’s responses reflects his continuous pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement.
- The podcast showcases the value of lifelong learning and its impact on achieving success and personal growth.
- Mikey’s journey encourages listeners to never stop learning and embracing new knowledge.
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COVID-19 and its Impact on Athletes:
- Mikey shares his own experience with COVID-19, highlighting the potential for severe complications even in healthy individuals.
- The conversation touches upon the challenges faced by athletes when balancing training with the need to rest and recover from the virus.
- Mikey’s story underscores the importance of prioritizing health and safety, especially when dealing with a potentially debilitating illness.
- The podcast offers valuable insights into the impact of COVID-19 on athletes and the importance of responsible decision-making during a pandemic.
5 Memorable Quotes:
- “Jujitsu is an art, and there’s a form of creativity to it in discovering things in the art.”
- “I’m always baiting my partner to give me certain reactions so I could do the move.”
- “I have no ego in training. I get obsessive that I need to have an answer to everything.”
- “Training all day is like me working for the food at night.”
- “I feel like I’m better eating like this. I’m happier. Happier makes you better in life.”