JRE MMA Show #132 with Joaquin Buckley

11-Nov-22

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JRE MMA Show #132 with Joaquin Buckley – Podcast Topics

This podcast features Joe Rogan’s conversation with Joaquin Buckley, a UFC Middleweight fighter known for his viral knockout kick. The conversation delves into Buckley’s journey from martial arts enthusiast to professional fighter, his unique training methods, his perspectives on the sport, and his aspirations for the future. Provocative topics include the effectiveness of traditional martial arts training in MMA, the advantages and disadvantages of training at big vs. small gyms, and the controversial “sidekick to the knee” technique. Underlying themes explore the importance of individual attention and structured training, the evolution of fighting styles in MMA, and the balancing act between seeking exciting finishes and intelligent fighting strategies.

Podcast Topics:

1. Joaquin Buckley’s Unique Style and Influences:

Buckley’s fighting style is heavily influenced by his passion for traditional martial arts, which he learned primarily from watching movies and instructional videos.
His background includes studying Taekwondo, Hapkido, Capoeira, and Sanshou, resulting in a diverse skillset that sets him apart in the UFC.
He credits iconic martial artists like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Michael Jai White, and Donnie Yen as major inspirations for his fighting style and techniques.
He credits YouTube as a vital resource for learning new techniques and refining his skills, highlighting the transformative impact of online content on martial arts training.

2. The Power of Individual Attention in Smaller Gyms:

Buckley emphasizes the importance of individualized attention and structure in smaller gyms, where fighters receive more personalized coaching and focus on fundamental skills.
He contrasts this with the often chaotic environment of larger gyms, where fighters might not get adequate coaching or attention, especially if they lack name recognition or a big fight coming up.
He argues that while larger gyms can offer world-class facilities and training partners, they lack the structure to effectively develop fighters at all levels, potentially hindering progress.
Buckley highlights the benefits of smaller gyms in fostering a tight-knit community and a more disciplined training environment that allows fighters to work on their fundamentals repeatedly until they become instinctual.

3. The Controversy Surrounding Sidekicks to the Knee:

Buckley discusses the controversial “sidekick to the knee” technique, which while legal, is often seen as a risky and potentially dangerous maneuver.
He acknowledges the legality of the technique but expresses a preference for targeting opponents with a solid stance, avoiding potential damage to their knees.
He highlights Sean Strickland as an example of a fighter who might be vulnerable to this technique, due to his tendency to stand straight up with a narrow stance.
The discussion highlights the ethical and practical considerations surrounding potentially damaging techniques in MMA, emphasizing the need for calculated risk-taking and a focus on the well-being of fighters.

4. The Evolution of Fighting Styles in MMA:

Buckley discusses how the evolution of MMA has led to the incorporation of diverse techniques from different martial arts disciplines, resulting in a more dynamic and unpredictable fighting style.
He argues that the combination of grappling and striking skills is essential for success in MMA, highlighting the need for fighters to be well-rounded and adaptable.
He points to the increasing prevalence of fighters with diverse backgrounds, such as himself, who can combine traditional martial arts techniques with modern MMA tactics, further diversifying the sport.
The discussion highlights the ongoing evolution of MMA as fighters continue to innovate and develop new techniques, making the sport more captivating and unpredictable.

5. The Balancing Act Between Exciting Finishes and Intelligent Fighting Strategies:

Buckley reflects on the importance of striking and securing exciting knockouts, acknowledging that they are a key driver of his popularity and income.
He acknowledges the criticisms he’s received for focusing on striking over grappling, particularly in his earlier fights, but defends his decision to prioritize fan appeal and exciting finishes.
However, he also highlights the shift in his approach towards becoming a champion, recognizing the importance of adopting more intelligent and strategic fighting strategies to secure victories consistently.
The discussion explores the delicate balance between pursuing exciting finishes and adopting a more calculated approach to fighting, emphasizing the need for fighters to evolve their strategies as they progress in their careers.

6. The Role of Mental Toughness and Resilience in MMA:

Buckley discusses the importance of mental toughness and resilience for fighters, emphasizing that these qualities are crucial for overcoming adversity, handling pressure, and pushing through difficult moments in training and competition.
He highlights the role of adversity in shaping a fighter’s character, noting that those who have faced challenges in their lives often develop a stronger mental fortitude and a greater drive to succeed.
He uses his own experiences with personal loss and hardship as examples of how adversity can fuel determination and perseverance, ultimately leading to greater success in the fight game.
The discussion underscores the significance of mental strength in MMA, recognizing that the ability to handle pressure, overcome setbacks, and maintain focus is just as important as physical prowess.

7. The Importance of Staying Active and Avoiding Stalled Careers:

Buckley shares his own experience with a stalled career, highlighting the risks of not staying active and consistently fighting, particularly during early stages.
He reflects on how his time with Bellator was marked by infrequent fights, hindering his development and leading to a sense of stagnation in his career.
He emphasizes the importance of staying active, finding fights, and accumulating valuable experience to continue progressing, especially during the early years of a fighter’s career.
The discussion highlights the importance of consistency and momentum in a fighter’s career, emphasizing the need for regular competition to refine skills, build confidence, and gain valuable experience.

8. The Value of Structured Training and Building a Team:

Buckley emphasizes the transformative impact of joining a structured training environment and working with a dedicated coaching team, after years of self-coaching and navigating the MMA world independently.
He reflects on the challenges he faced in finding competent coaches and fighting opportunities during his self-coached period, highlighting the difficulties of navigating the MMA world without a support system.
He praises the commitment and guidance provided by his current team, recognizing the importance of having a network of coaches and training partners who can provide the support and knowledge he needs to thrive.
The discussion highlights the importance of having a strong coaching team and a structured training environment for fighters, recognizing that this support is crucial for maximizing potential and achieving lasting success.

9. The Challenges of Balancing Personal Life with a Professional MMA Career:

Buckley shares his personal struggles with balancing his MMA career with family responsibilities, particularly when taking care of his grandmother who was suffering from ALS.
He describes the demanding nature of caring for someone with a debilitating illness, recognizing the sacrifices and challenges it presented in pursuing his MMA goals.
He highlights the importance of prioritizing family and loved ones while still pursuing one’s dreams, emphasizing that personal responsibility and compassion play a significant role in a fighter’s journey.
The discussion underscores the complexities of balancing a demanding career with personal commitments, recognizing the often-unseen challenges that fighters face outside the octagon.

10. The Importance of Leaving a Legacy and Making Your Mark in MMA:

Buckley discusses his desire to leave a lasting legacy in MMA, wanting to be remembered not only for his fighting prowess but also for his unique style and personality.
He highlights his desire to make his mark on the sport and be recognized for his contributions to its evolution, going beyond just winning a title.
He emphasizes the importance of leaving a positive impact on the sport and inspiring future generations of fighters, showcasing the dedication and passion that drives him.
The discussion highlights the importance of leaving a legacy in MMA, emphasizing that fighters strive to be remembered not just for their achievements but also for their impact on the sport and their contributions to its growth.

11. The Evolution of MMA as a Sport:

Buckley discusses the evolution of MMA as a sport, noting the significant changes in fighting styles, training methods, and the overall approach to the sport since its early days.
He acknowledges the increasing sophistication of MMA techniques, highlighting the importance of fighters being well-rounded and adaptable to succeed in the modern era of the sport.
He reflects on how the sport has become more strategic and technical, emphasizing the need for fighters to constantly learn, adapt, and refine their skills to stay competitive.
The discussion highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of MMA, emphasizing the constant drive for innovation and improvement that keeps the sport captivating and unpredictable.

12. The Impact of the Internet and Social Media on MMA:

Buckley discusses the profound impact of the internet and social media on MMA, acknowledging their role in promoting fighters, building fan bases, and influencing training methods.
He highlights the transformative power of YouTube and other online platforms for learning new techniques, connecting with fans, and building a personal brand.
He also discusses the potential drawbacks of social media, such as the pressure to promote oneself and the potential for negative feedback and online bullying.
The discussion underscores the dual role of the internet in MMA, recognizing its power to amplify fighters’ careers and its potential to create both positive and negative pressures.

13. The Unique Style and Impact of Israel Adesanya:

Buckley discusses his admiration for Israel Adesanya’s unique fighting style, recognizing his ability to control distance, use his reach advantage, and counter-strike effectively.
He acknowledges Adesanya’s dominance in the Middleweight division but expresses a belief that his own striking and physical attributes could pose a threat to Adesanya’s reign.
He highlights Adesanya’s tendency to fight cautiously, particularly against aggressive pressure fighters, suggesting that a more aggressive approach might expose weaknesses in his defense.
The discussion explores the dynamics of Adesanya’s fighting style and its potential vulnerabilities, emphasizing the importance of understanding an opponent’s strengths and weaknesses to develop an effective strategy.

14. The Importance of Maintaining a Strong Work Ethic and Dedication to the Sport:

Buckley emphasizes the importance of having a strong work ethic and unwavering dedication to the sport, acknowledging the sacrifices and commitments required to reach the highest levels.
He shares his own struggles with maintaining focus and motivation, particularly during periods of inactivity or career setbacks, highlighting the challenges of staying dedicated to a demanding sport.
He emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system, including dedicated coaches, training partners, and a network of people who believe in your potential, to maintain motivation and persevere through challenges.
The discussion highlights the dedication and hard work required to succeed in MMA, emphasizing that fighters must be willing to push their limits, make sacrifices, and remain committed to their goals to achieve lasting success.

15. The “Kevin Holland Effect” and its Impact on Fighters:

Buckley discusses the phenomenon he calls the “Kevin Holland effect,” referring to the unexpected boost in popularity and recognition that fighters can experience after facing a highly recognizable and charismatic opponent.
He highlights how both he and Anthony Hernandez saw a surge in their own profiles after losing to Kevin Holland, suggesting that even losses can sometimes catapult a fighter’s career to new heights.
The discussion explores the unpredictable nature of fame and recognition in MMA, acknowledging that unexpected moments can significantly impact a fighter’s trajectory and create new opportunities.
The “Kevin Holland effect” serves as a reminder that in MMA, where highlight reels and viral moments are key, even losses can sometimes lead to unexpected gains in popularity and career opportunities.

16. The Role of Physical Attributes and Training in MMA Success:

Buckley discusses the importance of both physical attributes and training in determining a fighter’s success, recognizing that both are crucial for achieving lasting results.
He highlights the challenges of fighting larger opponents, recognizing that even with superior skills, size and strength can play a significant role in the outcome of a fight.
He emphasizes the need to be well-rounded, developing both striking and grappling skills to compensate for any potential physical disadvantages, underscoring the importance of strategic development.
The discussion underscores the complex interplay between physical attributes and training in MMA, recognizing that while natural talent can be a valuable asset, it is ultimately training and dedication that propel fighters to the highest levels.

17. The Importance of Adaptability and Versatility in MMA:

Buckley discusses the importance of adaptability and versatility in MMA, recognizing that fighters must be able to adjust their strategies and techniques based on their opponents and the flow of the fight.
He highlights the need to be comfortable fighting in different positions, whether on the feet, on the ground, or in the clinch, showcasing the importance of a diverse skillset.
He emphasizes that fighters who can adapt to different situations and styles are more likely to succeed, highlighting the importance of flexibility and innovation in the fight game.
The discussion underscores the need for fighters to be adaptable and versatile, recognizing that those who can adjust their strategies and techniques based on the demands of the fight are more likely to achieve lasting success.

18. The Importance of Staying True to Your Style and Personality:

Buckley encourages fighters to stay true to their own style and personality, recognizing that authenticity is a key driver of fan appeal and success.
He highlights the importance of expressing oneself in the octagon, showcasing unique techniques and engaging in ways that reflect one’s individuality, arguing that this is what makes MMA so captivating.
He emphasizes that fighters who stay true to themselves and fight in ways that are both entertaining and effective are more likely to build a strong fan base and create a lasting impact on the sport.
The discussion underscores the importance of finding one’s own identity within MMA, recognizing that individuality and authenticity are crucial for building a successful and lasting career.

19. The Future of MMA:

Buckley discusses the future of MMA, expressing optimism about its continued growth and evolution, recognizing the sport’s increasing popularity and global reach.
He acknowledges the emergence of new fighters with diverse backgrounds and styles, suggesting that the sport will become even more dynamic and unpredictable in the coming years.
He emphasizes the importance of fighters continuing to innovate and refine their techniques, pushing the boundaries of the sport and creating more captivating and exciting fights.
The discussion highlights the bright future of MMA, recognizing its potential to continue attracting new fans, developing new stars, and evolving into a more exciting and captivating sport for years to come.

Memorable Quotes:

“My biggest thing is, like, when I for my first UFC fight with Kevin Holland. I just chose to stand on the feet. I coulda took Kevin Holland down. I coulda, you know what I mean? Put it put myself in a better position to win. But I decided just to strike.”
“I feel like a lot of fighters feel like they need to move on from the gym that they come from, that they was developing, well at to go to a bigger gym. You know? And that’s not the way to go always.”
“I just wanna always be excited. You know? But now we’re trying to, you know, switch the gears into just becoming a winner, you know, because now we got money in the bank.”
“I just didn’t like that. You know? So to help you get out of that, I just love. I was like, man, I forget this gym. You know what I mean? I literally just like man, I forget everything because once I got cut from Bella Tour, you know what I mean? I just like, man, that’s some bullshit. Like, this is the highest level of, you know, saying promotion. Now I gotta go right back into fighting on share out this bullshit. Right?”
“I’m a keep going. Until I get there. Yeah. Like, come on now. That’s the perseverance. Right? That’s the real perseverance.”

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