JRE MMA Show #144 with Jared Cannonier

2-Aug-23

JRE MMA Show #144 with Jared Cannonier – Topics and Summary

This podcast features Joe Rogan and Jared Cannonier, a professional mixed martial artist, discussing various aspects of MMA, including weight cutting, the evolution of the sport, and the impact of training and mindset. Provocative topics include the dangers of extreme weight cutting and the contrasting philosophies of strength and conditioning. The podcast delves into underlying themes of dedication, perseverance, and the ever-evolving nature of MMA.

1. The Impact of Crowd Energy on Fighters:

Jared Cannonier acknowledges the influence of an enthusiastic crowd on his performance, stating he feels invigorated or challenged by their energy.
He emphasizes that crowd energy can be a powerful motivator, especially in arenas where fans are genuinely excited about the fighters.
Cannonier prefers fighting in smaller, more intimate venues like the Apex, where he feels a closer connection to his opponent and his corner.
He highlights the contrast between the energy in a packed arena versus a more intimate setting, emphasizing how both environments can impact a fighter’s performance.

2. Jared Cannonier’s Unconventional Weight Cutting Journey:

Cannonier’s journey from heavyweight to middleweight is a unique and successful feat, demonstrating his exceptional discipline and adaptability.
He openly discusses his weight fluctuations, revealing he can walk around as heavy as 225 pounds despite fighting at 185 pounds.
Cannonier acknowledges that he’s not naturally a heavyweight, but rather an undisciplined one, implying that his success at middleweight is due to his newfound discipline.
The conversation highlights the challenges and risks of extreme weight cutting in MMA, with Cannonier emphasizing the importance of a safe and healthy approach.

3. The Debate on Weight Cutting in MMA:

Joe Rogan and Jared Cannonier engage in a lively debate about weight cutting, with both expressing their concerns about its dangers and the possibility of a ban.
They discuss the ethical implications of dehydrating oneself before a fight, acknowledging the risks to the fighters’ health and potentially affecting their performance.
The podcast highlights the evolution of MMA regulations, with both Rogan and Cannonier suggesting that the UFC has become more stringent in monitoring weight cutting practices.
This debate underscores the ongoing discussion about the future of weight cutting in MMA, with some calling for a complete ban due to the associated risks.

4. The Evolution of MMA and Skillset Development:

Cannonier reflects on the evolution of MMA, noting the significant improvement in skillsets over the generations, attributing this to increased access to information and training.
The conversation highlights the advantage of today’s fighters having access to a vast library of knowledge from previous generations, allowing for continuous growth and development.
The podcast acknowledges the pioneers of MMA, such as Royce Gracie, Ken Shamrock, and Dan Severn, who fought without the benefit of readily available knowledge and training resources.
This exploration of MMA’s history highlights the remarkable progress made in the sport, showcasing the dedication and innovation of fighters and coaches throughout the years.

5. The Importance of Personal Growth and Mindset:

Jared Cannonier emphasizes the importance of personal growth and mindset as key elements in his success, stating that he approaches fighting as a continuous journey of self-improvement.
He highlights the internal aspects of martial arts, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline, mental strength, and constant learning.
The podcast showcases Cannonier’s dedication to his craft, underscoring his constant drive to improve even at an elite level.
Cannonier’s perspective on fighting as a personal challenge inspires listeners to adopt a similar mindset in their own endeavors, embracing growth and perseverance as essential components of success.

6. The Value of Coaches and the Athlete-Coach Relationship:

The podcast emphasizes the significance of a strong coach-athlete relationship, highlighting how it can be a crucial factor in a fighter’s success.
Cannonier discusses his relationship with his coach, emphasizing the importance of communication, trust, and mutual understanding in achieving optimal performance.
Examples like the relationship between Demetrious Johnson and Matt Hume, and Georges St. Pierre and his coach, illustrate the impact of a well-aligned coach-athlete partnership.
This discussion underscores the role of coaching in shaping a fighter’s career, emphasizing the importance of finding a coach who aligns with the athlete’s goals, personality, and training style.

7. Jared Cannonier’s MMA Journey: From the Army to the UFC:

Cannonier recounts his journey to MMA, revealing his introduction to the sport through Army combatives training and subsequent involvement in a local Alaskan promotion, AFC.
He shares his decision to relocate to Arizona and train at the MMA Lab, a pivotal moment that propelled his career to new heights.
The podcast highlights Cannonier’s determination and perseverance, demonstrating his willingness to relocate and dedicate himself to his dream.
Cannonier’s story inspires listeners, showcasing the potential for achieving success through dedication and commitment to one’s passions.

8. The Impact of Injuries on MMA Fighters:

The podcast explores the prevalence of injuries in MMA, with Cannonier sharing his personal experiences with a torn pec, a broken ulna, and other injuries sustained during training and competition.
He discusses the unique challenges of recovering from injuries in a sport that demands physicality and constant improvement.
The conversation highlights the importance of proper recovery strategies, such as cold plunges, massages, and physical therapy, in extending a fighter’s career.
This discussion emphasizes the grit and resilience required by MMA fighters to overcome injuries and continue their pursuit of excellence.

9. The Role of Striking in MMA:

Jared Cannonier discusses his approach to striking, emphasizing the importance of accurate and powerful punches, as well as developing unorthodox techniques like those learned from Capoeira.
He highlights the evolution of striking in MMA, referencing the impact of fighters like John Wayne Parr and Saenchai, known for their mastery of elbows and innovative techniques.
The conversation underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in striking, with Cannonier showcasing his willingness to expand his repertoire and experiment with new techniques.
The podcast showcases the diversity of striking styles in MMA, emphasizing the importance of finding an approach that aligns with a fighter’s strengths and personality.

10. The Importance of Footwork in MMA:

Cannonier emphasizes the critical role of footwork in MMA, noting its impact on striking accuracy, power generation, and overall movement in the octagon.
He discusses how his footwork has evolved over time, attributing its improvement to his experience with wrestling shoes and his observation of elite fighters like Terence Crawford in boxing.
The podcast highlights the importance of precise foot placement and movement, with Cannonier using analogies to Kung Fu training to illustrate its significance.
This discussion encourages listeners to recognize the value of mastering fundamental techniques, emphasizing the importance of footwork as a key element in combat sports.

11. The Evolution of Striking in Boxing:

Joe Rogan and Jared Cannonier discuss the evolution of striking in boxing, specifically highlighting the exceptional skills of Terence Crawford and his ability to adapt and outmaneuver his opponents.
They analyze Crawford’s recent victory over Errol Spence Jr., emphasizing Crawford’s accuracy, power, and ability to land punches from close range.
The conversation underscores the importance of mastering footwork, head movement, and timing in boxing, with Cannonier expressing his admiration for Crawford’s skillset and his potential to be an all-time great.
The podcast showcases the diversity and evolution of striking in boxing, highlighting the importance of adapting and improving one’s approach to remain competitive at the highest levels of the sport.

12. The Fascination with Bears:

Joe Rogan and Jared Cannonier share their experiences and insights about bears, particularly grizzly bears and polar bears, emphasizing their power, intelligence, and potential danger.
They discuss the importance of respecting wildlife and being prepared for encounters in areas where bears are prevalent.
The conversation highlights the need for caution and awareness when venturing into bear habitats, emphasizing the importance of carrying bear spray and practicing safe practices.
The podcast incorporates elements of storytelling and personal anecdotes, showcasing the intrigue and respect that these powerful animals evoke.

13. The Power of Video Games and Unwinding:

Jared Cannonier reveals his love for video games as a means of unwinding and relaxing, emphasizing their importance for maintaining mental well-being outside of his intense training regimen.
He discusses his fondness for anime and fighting games, showcasing the diverse interests of athletes beyond the competitive arena.
The podcast highlights the importance of finding healthy outlets and engaging in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being, particularly for athletes who endure significant physical and mental demands.
This discussion encourages listeners to recognize the importance of pursuing hobbies and interests that bring joy and balance to their lives, regardless of their chosen professions.

14. The Value of a Healthy Lifestyle:

Jared Cannonier discusses the importance of a healthy lifestyle, highlighting the benefits of cold plunges, saunas, and stretching for recovery and performance.
He emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and finding recovery methods that work best for individual needs and preferences.
The conversation highlights the growing importance of recovery practices in extending athletic careers and enhancing overall well-being.
This discussion encourages listeners to prioritize their health and incorporate beneficial practices into their daily routines, promoting both physical and mental resilience.

15. The Role of Discipline in Athletic Longevity:

Jared Cannonier emphasizes the role of discipline and commitment in achieving athletic longevity, showcasing his own determination to continue improving at an elite level despite being in his late 30s.
He discusses the importance of a strict training regimen, a healthy diet, and a mindset focused on continuous growth.
The conversation highlights the example of Bernard Hopkins, a boxer known for his extreme discipline and remarkable career longevity.
This discussion inspires listeners to recognize the importance of discipline and self-belief in achieving long-term success in any endeavor.

16. The Importance of Being Authentic:

Jared Cannonier emphasizes the importance of being authentic, stating that his goal is to be honest with himself and others, regardless of the expectations or pressures of the sport.
He rejects the need to cater to entertainment or promotional demands, expressing a preference for remaining true to his values and personality.
The podcast showcases the importance of individuality and self-expression in the world of sports, emphasizing the need to remain true to oneself despite external pressures.
Cannonier’s message encourages listeners to embrace their authenticity, inspiring them to pursue their passions with integrity and genuineness.

17. The Future of the Middleweight Division:

The podcast discusses the current state of the UFC’s middleweight division, with Rogan and Cannonier analyzing the recent emergence of new talent and the potential for exciting matchups.
They highlight the potential for Cannonier to fight the winner of the upcoming Sean Strickland-Alex Pereira bout, creating anticipation for a future title contender.
The conversation emphasizes the competitive nature of the division, with several fighters vying for the championship belt and exciting opportunities for fans.
This discussion underscores the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the sport, with the middleweight division showcasing the talent and drive of many fighters who are constantly striving for greatness.

18. The Legacy of Strikeforce:

The podcast discusses the legacy of Strikeforce, a former MMA promotion that once rivaled the UFC, highlighting the high caliber of fighters who competed under its banner.
Rogan and Cannonier recount memorable Strikeforce fights, such as Nick Diaz vs. Cyborg, Nick Diaz vs. Paul Daley, and Frank Shamrock vs. Robbie Lawler.
They acknowledge the importance of Strikeforce in the development of MMA, showcasing its impact on the sport’s growth and the emergence of elite fighters.
This discussion provides historical context to the evolution of MMA, emphasizing the significance of competition and diverse promotions in pushing the sport forward.

19. The Value of Constant Learning:

Jared Cannonier highlights his dedication to constant learning, stating that he’s always seeking to acquire new knowledge and skills, even by observing fighters in other sports like boxing.
He emphasizes his approach to training as a continuous process of exploration and improvement, showcasing his willingness to adapt and refine his techniques.
The conversation underscores the importance of a growth mindset in achieving excellence, with Cannonier emphasizing the value of continuous learning and self-reflection.
This discussion encourages listeners to embrace a similar approach in their own lives, recognizing that continuous learning and development are key to achieving goals and fulfilling one’s potential.

20. The Importance of Finding Enjoyment in Training:

Jared Cannonier emphasizes the importance of finding enjoyment in training, suggesting that incorporating activities like video games and VR simulations can enhance motivation and make exercise more appealing.
He encourages listeners to explore different approaches to fitness, recommending activities that align with their interests and make the process more enjoyable.
The conversation highlights the importance of balance and finding a sustainable approach to fitness that incorporates enjoyable elements, rather than solely relying on traditional and potentially monotonous routines.
This discussion encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and find ways to make fitness a positive and engaging aspect of their lives.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“You know, when you hear the crowd reacting to the fight and it’s- Pull that pull the mic right in front of you. Yeah, when you hear the crowd reacting to the fight in itself, you know, you get energy from it, you know.” – Cannonier expresses the powerful impact of crowd energy on fighters.
“I get invigorated by it, or I get checked by it, you know what I mean? If the guy’s doing something good and the crowd’s loving it, I’m gonna by it. You know what I mean? If the guy’s doing something good and the crowd’s loving it, I’m gonna make, I’m gonna put a stop to that.” – Cannonier illustrates the motivational and competitive aspect of crowd energy.
“I think a lot of us middleweights walk around in lightweight or above the, like, yeah. Above the high-high level.” – Cannonier reveals the common weight fluctuations among middleweight fighters, highlighting the challenges of weight cutting.
“I’ve been working with him. He brings it out of me a lot, you know, working with Ryan Diaz, who comes in and helps me out, shows me a lot of the stuff, you know, he knows a lot of ties and stuff. So he’s a more tight specialist himself.” – Cannonier discusses the role of training partners in enhancing his skills.
“And you gotta let people figure out what their thing is. And it’s like, some of the best fighters are not necessarily the most balanced where they’re graded everything, but they’re so good at one thing that they can impose that, whether it’s grappling or whether it’s striking.” – Cannonier reflects on the different approaches to fighting, emphasizing the value of specialization.