21-Sep-22
Joe Rogan MMA Show #130 with Will Harris – Podcast Topics
This podcast offers a candid conversation with Will Harris, a renowned combat sports documentarian. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges faced by fighters, the impact of fame and wealth, the risks of the sport, the evolving landscape of MMA, the complex social issues surrounding black men in America, and the unique dynamics within the combat sports community.
Major Topics
Here’s a breakdown of the main topics covered in the podcast:
- Anatomy of a Fighter Documentary Series:
- Will Harris’s vision for the series was to humanize fighters, highlighting their struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs.
- The series provides an intimate glimpse into the emotional and physical challenges faced by fighters, from weight cuts to injuries and training regimens.
- Harris emphasizes the incredible dedication and resilience required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
- The series has gained popularity for its compelling storytelling and its ability to showcase the human side of fighters.
- The Impact of Fame and Wealth:
- The podcast explores the pressure and expectations that come with being a successful fighter, especially for those who reach the top tier of the sport.
- Harris reveals the vulnerability of fighters to financial exploitation, with sponsors often disappearing after a loss.
- The conversation delves into the emotional toll of fame, with fighters often facing constant scrutiny and pressure from fans and the media.
- The podcast highlights the need for fighters to be mindful of their finances and to build a strong support system to navigate the challenges of fame and wealth.
- The Risks of the Sport:
- The conversation centers on the inherent risks of MMA, from severe injuries to the possibility of death in the octagon.
- Harris describes the emotional impact of witnessing a fighter get knocked out, drawing parallels to witnessing a violent crime.
- The podcast examines the unpredictable nature of the sport, where a single blow can alter the course of a fighter’s career or even their life.
- The discussion emphasizes the importance of fighters being aware of the risks and having the mental fortitude to handle the potential consequences.
- The Evolving Landscape of MMA:
- The podcast discusses the growing popularity of MMA globally, particularly in regions like the UAE and Africa.
- Harris expresses his desire to expand his documentary series to capture the stories of fighters from around the world.
- The conversation highlights the rise of Abu Dhabi as a fight capital, with the UFC hosting major events in the region.
- The podcast explores the potential for MMA to become a truly global sport, with fans and fighters from diverse backgrounds contributing to its growth.
- Social Issues Surrounding Black Men in America:
- The podcast dives into the unique challenges faced by black men in America, particularly in terms of safety and security.
- Harris shares his personal experiences with racial profiling and the fear he feels when interacting with law enforcement.
- The conversation examines the prevalence of violence and crime in certain communities, and the impact it has on black men’s lives.
- The podcast explores the complexities of race, class, and opportunity in America, and the need for systemic change to address these issues.
- The Clicky Nature of the MMA Community:
- Harris reveals the tight-knit and often exclusive nature of the MMA community, with strong loyalties among fighters and their teams.
- The podcast discusses the potential for bias and favoritism within the community, with fighters often aligning themselves with specific camps or managers.
- The conversation explores the importance of maintaining professional relationships while navigating the complex dynamics of the MMA world.
- The podcast suggests that the clicky nature of the community can create challenges for those who are not part of established groups.
- The Role of Social Media and Online Interactions:
- The podcast examines the impact of social media on fighters’ lives, both positive and negative.
- Harris warns about the potential for online harassment and bullying, urging fighters to limit their exposure to negative comments and to focus on their own goals.
- The conversation highlights the role of social media in promoting fighters’ careers and building their brands, but also emphasizes the need for moderation and healthy boundaries.
- The podcast suggests that social media can be a double-edged sword for fighters, requiring careful navigation and a strong sense of self.
- The Challenges of Dating in the Modern Era:
- The podcast delves into the complexities of dating in today’s world, with the prevalence of dating apps and the abundance of options creating both opportunities and challenges.
- Harris shares his personal experiences with dating apps, highlighting the overwhelming nature of having a multitude of matches and the difficulty of forming meaningful connections.
- The conversation explores the impact of dating apps on relationships, suggesting that they can contribute to a sense of detachment and a lack of real connection.
- The podcast suggests that while dating apps can be convenient, they may not always be conducive to finding lasting love.
- The Importance of Personal Growth and Self-Discovery:
- The podcast encourages listeners to explore their own desires and aspirations, and to pursue what brings them joy and fulfillment.
- Harris shares his own journey of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life.
- The conversation emphasizes the need for honesty and self-awareness, and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and encouraging relationships.
- The podcast suggests that personal growth is a continuous process, requiring introspection, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change.
- The Future of MMA:
- The podcast discusses the exciting future of MMA, with the sport continuing to evolve and expand its reach globally.
- Harris predicts the emergence of new stars and the continued development of fighters’ skills and strategies.
- The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in MMA, with documentaries and other media playing a crucial role in capturing the sport’s essence.
- The podcast suggests that the future of MMA holds immense potential for growth and innovation, both in terms of athletic performance and storytelling.
Memorable Quotes
- “There’s such an opening for that because they’re the most interesting athletes because it’s such a difficult thing to do emotionally, psychologically, there’s so much involved in it.” – Will Harris highlights the unique challenges and complexities faced by MMA fighters.
- “That is the consequences, and that those consequences are available even to the greatest champions. If you get head kicked, that’s it. That’s the button. You get head kicked by Leon Edwards. That’s the button.” – Harris emphasizes the unpredictable nature of MMA, where a single blow can have devastating consequences.
- “If you give people an out, they do. We were talking about PPP loans earlier. You give people that option, and they take it.” – Harris reflects on human nature and the tendency to take advantage of opportunities, even if they are intended to be helpful.
- “It’s very safe. It’s 1% crime rate. I have some friends. We we were out at dinner the other night and Chappell’s friends with this dude who runs luxury resorts in Dubai, and him and his wife were there. And they were talking about how You don’t really have free speech over there the way we have in America.” – Harris discusses the potential trade-offs between safety and freedom when considering moving to a different country.
- “It’s not worth it. It’s not worth it. I’ll do it. Yeah. I I’m doing it currently and it’s like, I’m trying to figure out what the fuck do I want.” – Harris acknowledges the challenges of dating in the modern era, particularly with the abundance of options and the potential for addiction to the validation and excitement of new relationships.