JRE MMA Show #135 with Paul Felder

1-Feb-23

Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show #135 with Paul Felder

This podcast dives deep into the world of professional fighting and the mental and physical toll it takes on its practitioners, featuring a fascinating conversation with retired UFC fighter Paul Felder, now a commentator for the UFC. Provocative topics include the transition from professional fighting to triathlon, the dangers of weight cuts and injuries, the rising talent pool in MMA, the potential for crossover fights in boxing and MMA, and the impact of social media on fighters’ lives. Underlying themes explore the relentless pursuit of excellence, the enduring appeal of combat sports, the evolution of the fighting scene, and the complex relationship between the fighter and the sport itself.

1. Paul Felder’s Transition from MMA to Triathlon

Felder’s unexpected discovery of triathlon during the pandemic. He stumbled upon it while looking for running workouts on YouTube and was immediately captivated by its intensity and diversity of disciplines.
The appeal of triathlon for a retired fighter lies in the opportunity to push physical limits in a new way, with the added challenge of mastering three distinct disciplines.
Felder aims to compete at the highest amateur level, striving for wins in his age group. He sees triathlon as a way to continue competing, even after his MMA career.
The contrast between the endurance demands of triathlon and MMA is highlighted. While both sports require physical strength, the different durations and intensities demand unique physiological adaptations.

2. The Dangers of Weight Cutting in MMA

Felder openly discusses the long-term health consequences of extreme weight cuts, revealing how it has affected his own kidneys and lungs.
He recounts specific instances of injury, like Rabdo after the Dan Hooker fight and a collapsed lung in the James Vick fight, directly linked to weight cutting.
Felder argues that weight cutting is essentially sanctioned cheating, as fighters are forced to dehydrate themselves to meet weight requirements, putting their bodies at risk.
He believes that a healthier, more sustainable approach to weight management would benefit fighters, allowing them to perform at a higher level for longer.

3. The Evolution and Future of MMA

Felder discusses the dramatic shift in the MMA landscape, highlighting the remarkable improvement in talent and skill level over the past two decades. He argues that the sport has become nearly unrecognizable compared to its early days.
The rise of fighters from Eastern Europe and Russia, known for their exceptional athleticism and aggressive fighting styles, is recognized as a major factor in the evolution of the sport.
The emergence of new fighting styles, particularly the incorporation of Muay Thai techniques and the emphasis on leg kicks, has significantly changed the dynamics of MMA.
Felder predicts an even higher level of competition in the future, with younger, more talented fighters entering the scene, pushing the boundaries of MMA.

4. The Crossover Potential between Boxing and MMA

Felder’s enthusiasm for potential crossover fights between boxing and MMA champions, like a theoretical clash between Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury, is evident. He sees these fights as a spectacle that would generate immense interest and revenue.
He acknowledges the unique skill sets and advantages of each discipline, particularly highlighting the difficulty of landing a clean punch on Tyson Fury’s chin, due to his agility and defensive mastery.
He believes that the potential for a crossover fight between John Jones and Francis Ngannou for the UFC heavyweight title is a tantalizing prospect, given the dominance of both fighters.
The discussion explores the financial incentives driving these crossover fights, particularly for fighters like Ngannou, who are seeking to capitalize on their popularity and potentially secure lucrative boxing contracts.

5. The Impact of Social Media on Fighters

Felder expresses concern about the potential negative impact of social media on fighters’ mental health, citing instances where fighters engage in online conflicts, which can negatively affect their training and mindset.
He emphasizes the importance of managing social media engagement, especially avoiding inflammatory comments and negativity, and focusing on healthy coping mechanisms to deal with online criticism.
Felder advocates for a more conscious approach to social media use among fighters, promoting self-awareness and setting boundaries to protect their mental well-being.
He highlights the contrasting experiences of fighters like Gordon Ryan, who thrives on online interactions, and Rashad Evans, who has experienced the negative effects of social media negativity.

6. The Debate on Diet and Nutrition

Felder shares his personal experience with the carnivore diet, revealing his preference for a high-protein, low-carb approach to nutrition. He claims this diet improves his performance and overall well-being, but acknowledges its controversial nature.
He discusses the scientific evidence supporting the benefits of red meat, countering popular beliefs about its negative health effects.
Felder acknowledges the viability of a vegan diet for fighters, but emphasizes the importance of careful planning and macro-nutrient management to ensure adequate protein intake and energy levels.
He highlights the importance of individualized nutrition strategies, as what works for one fighter may not work for another, and advocates for consulting with qualified nutritionists.

7. The Importance of Elite Training Environments

Felder highlights the significance of training with elite fighters as a key factor in developing top-level skills and pushing oneself to new limits. He believes that exposure to high-caliber sparring partners is essential for early development.
He contrasts the intense training environment at gyms like American Top Team, where fighters are constantly pushed to their limits, with smaller gyms, where individualized attention is prioritized.
Felder advocates for a balanced approach, recognizing the benefits of both large, competitive gyms and smaller, more focused training environments.
He emphasizes the importance of finding a training environment that aligns with a fighter’s individual needs and goals, providing the right mix of sparring partners, coaches, and overall training culture.

8. The Impact of Injuries and Concussions on Fighters

Felder discusses the prevalence of injuries in MMA, including his own experiences with knee issues, a collapsed lung, and a broken orbital bone. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health and seeking proper medical attention.
He highlights the particular dangers of concussions, discussing the long-term effects and the ongoing research into concussion protocol and recovery.
Felder shares his personal experience with concussion testing and the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms, even after seemingly minor injuries.
He acknowledges the genetic factors that contribute to concussion vulnerability, highlighting the example of Mark Hunt, who has shown resilience despite enduring numerous blows to the head.

9. The UFC’s Use of Backup Fighters

Felder discusses the UFC’s increased use of backup fighters in recent years, particularly in situations where main event fights are jeopardized due to weight misses or injuries.
He recognizes the logistical challenges and potential for disruption when a backup fighter is called in on short notice, particularly concerning the weight cut and training preparation.
He highlights instances where backup fighters have seized unexpected opportunities, like Jamal Hill’s title win against Glover Teixeira in Glover’s hometown, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of the sport.
Felder believes that having backup fighters in place is a necessary precaution to ensure the smooth operation of UFC events, particularly when high-profile fights are at stake.

10. The Debate on Scoring Systems

Felder criticizes the current 10-point must scoring system in MMA, arguing that it is not comprehensive enough to accurately evaluate the complex dynamics of the sport.
He advocates for a more nuanced scoring system that incorporates multiple factors, such as strikes landed, takedowns, control, and submission attempts, to better reflect the full spectrum of skills employed in MMA.
Felder points to the subjectivity of current scoring, often leading to debate and frustration among fans and fighters alike.
He highlights the ongoing efforts to improve MMA scoring, including Doc Hamilton’s development of an alternative half-point system, which he believes is a step in the right direction.

11. The Rise of New Talent and Young Fighters

Felder marvels at the abundance of young, talented fighters entering the UFC, demonstrating extraordinary skills at a young age, like Muhammad Mokaev, who is fighting in the UFC at just 18 years old.
He highlights the significant difference in talent level between modern MMA fighters and those of the past, attributing it to increased access to training, coaching, and exposure to the sport from a young age.
Felder acknowledges the potential for rapid growth and development among young fighters, but emphasizes the importance of proper guidance and training to nurture their skills and protect their health.
He predicts an exciting future for the sport, with the emergence of new champions and the continued evolution of fighting styles and techniques.

12. The Legacy of Combat Sports Legends

Felder pays tribute to legendary fighters like Fedor Emelianenko, Mark Hunt, and Mirko Cro Cop, recognizing their exceptional skills and contributions to the sport.
He discusses the unique qualities of these fighters, highlighting their resilience, power, and willingness to engage in all-out warfare in the ring or cage.
He acknowledges the lasting impact these legends have had on the sport, inspiring generations of fighters and shaping the evolution of MMA and kickboxing.
Felder emphasizes the importance of respecting and celebrating the contributions of these legendary figures, whose fights have captivated fans and shaped the history of combat sports.

13. The Importance of Hard Sparring and Training

Felder recognizes the importance of hard sparring as a crucial aspect of preparing for MMA fights. He acknowledges the need to simulate the intensity and physicality of a real fight during training.
He emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate sparring partners who can provide a realistic challenge, as opposed to engaging in random, unproductive sparring sessions.
Felder suggests a more formalized approach to hard sparring, similar to boxing training, where specific sparring partners are chosen and the intensity is carefully managed.
He discusses the debate about the ideal training environment for young fighters, weighing the benefits of intense, competitive gyms against smaller gyms with more individualized attention and a focus on individual development.

14. The Importance of Mental Strength and Resilience

Felder emphasizes the importance of mental strength and resilience in MMA, highlighting the ability of fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Kamaru Usman to push through physical limitations and achieve dominance in the sport.
He discusses how fighters like Glover Teixeira and Leon Edwards have demonstrated remarkable mental fortitude, overcoming adversity and achieving championship success despite injuries and setbacks.
Felder acknowledges the mental toll that combat sports can take, but also recognizes the mental toughness that fighters develop through their experiences and training.
He highlights the importance of mental conditioning alongside physical training, emphasizing the ability to control emotions, stay focused under pressure, and persevere through difficult challenges.

15. The Importance of Enjoying the Journey

Felder emphasizes the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in the journey of becoming a fighter. He encourages fighters to embrace the challenges, the training, and the camaraderie of the sport.
He reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of fighting, the highs of victory and the lows of defeat, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and appreciating the experience itself.
Felder emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between ambition and enjoyment, reminding fighters that their passion for the sport should fuel their journey.
He encourages fighters to find purpose and meaning beyond the win-loss record, recognizing the valuable skills and experiences gained through their training and competition.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“That’s what I don’t even wanna say that. I feel like it’s disrespectful to the guys, and I know that are pro and how how fast they are to say that yet. All I wanna say now is I I I wanna do it and b, I wanna win age groups.” – Felder acknowledges the impressive capabilities of professional triathletes while expressing his own aspirations.
“I’ve obviously lost a piece of my lung in the James Vick fight.” – Felder reveals the extent of the damage caused by weight cutting, emphasizing the serious health risks involved.
“It’s so freaking hard to to score. Yeah. And it’s very subjective. It’s very subjective.” – Felder expresses his frustration with the current scoring system in MMA, highlighting the ambiguity and subjectivity of judging.
“If you go back to those days, the early days of Pride, that the Fedor that was dominating people in Pride was one of the most impressive fighters that has ever fucking live.” – Felder reflects on the dominance and versatility of Fedor Emelianenko during his reign in Pride FC, recognizing his legacy as a true legend of the sport.
“It’s the same sort of situation. They oftentimes wanna go back. Yeah. It’s like the thrill of that.” – Felder compares the desire for combat in MMA to the experience of military service, acknowledging the shared thrill of competition and the challenges of confronting danger.