5-Jun-19
This podcast features Joe Rogan in conversation with UFC Welterweight fighter Kevin Lee, diving into the world of MMA and exploring the challenges and triumphs faced by a professional fighter. Provocative topics include Kevin’s recent fight with Rafael dos Anjos, the impact of losing, his search for a new coach, and the importance of mental resilience. Underlying themes explore the importance of mental toughness, the impact of grief and loss on a fighter’s journey, the delicate balance between self-confidence and seeking guidance, and the evolution of MMA as a sport.
Topics and Summary
-
Kevin Lee’s Fight with Rafael dos Anjos:
- Kevin Lee lost to Rafael dos Anjos via submission in the third round.
- Lee was surprised by dos Anjos’s ability to control the pace of the fight, allowing Lee to tire himself out.
- Lee acknowledges a crucial mistake in the fight that led to the submission.
- Lee highlights the dangers of fighting a world-class BJJ black belt like dos Anjos, highlighting the importance of avoiding mistakes.
-
The Impact of Losing:
- Kevin Lee openly expresses his hatred for losing, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes.
- He describes the self-reflection and replaying of the fight in his head that follows a defeat.
- Lee emphasizes the importance of learning and growing from losses, acknowledging that they are an inherent part of the game.
- He shares his perspective on how losing can act as a catalyst for positive change and growth.
-
Kevin Lee’s Search for a New Coach:
- Lee is actively seeking a new coach after the passing of his longtime mentor, Robert Follers.
- He acknowledges the importance of having a coach who understands his style, strengths, and weaknesses, both physically and psychologically.
- Lee desires a coach with experience and a proven track record, someone he can learn from and be challenged by.
- He recognizes the need for a coach he respects and wants to impress, acknowledging that this dynamic is essential for growth and development.
-
Kevin Lee’s Staph Infection:
- Kevin Lee battled a staph infection leading up to his fight with dos Anjos, a significant challenge that made the weight cut more difficult.
- He chose not to take antibiotics, fearing the side effects and potential impact on his performance.
- Lee shares the grueling weight cut experience, emphasizing the mental and physical strain he endured.
- He acknowledges that the decision to fight with staph was risky, but he ultimately chose to push through, showcasing his unwavering dedication.
-
The Importance of Mental Resilience:
- Kevin Lee highlights the importance of mental resilience in MMA, emphasizing that it is more than just physical strength and skill.
- He discusses the importance of having the mental strength to overcome setbacks and stay focused on long-term goals.
- Lee shares how his belief in his own potential fuels his determination to succeed, even in the face of adversity.
- He stresses the need for fighters to surround themselves with people who believe in them, creating a supportive environment.
-
Kevin Lee’s Training Regimen:
- Lee is on a quest to refine his training, exploring different camps and coaches, including John Crouch, Trevor Whitman, and Firas Zahabi.
- He recognizes the importance of a change of scenery and environment to break out of his comfort zone and push himself further.
- Lee emphasizes the value of training with world-class fighters and coaches, providing him with the best possible preparation for his goals.
- He acknowledges the importance of finding the right fit in terms of training partners, coaches, and overall training environment.
-
The Role of Conditioning:
- Kevin Lee discusses the importance of strength and conditioning in MMA, acknowledging that it can be the missing piece for many fighters.
- He shares his experiences with Calvit’s methods, highlighting the grueling nature of his workouts and their emphasis on pushing fighters to their limits.
- Lee acknowledges the importance of finding a balance between strength and conditioning, technique, and strategy.
- He believes that a strong conditioning foundation is essential for maximizing performance and endurance in a fight.
-
The Future of MMA:
- Kevin Lee predicts the evolution of MMA, suggesting that leg locks will become more prominent as fighters refine their understanding of the technique.
- He highlights the growing talent pool in other organizations like ONE Championship and Bellator, recognizing the competitive landscape.
- Lee discusses the importance of the UFC’s ESPN deal, recognizing the potential for increased exposure and mainstream appeal.
- He believes that MMA is still evolving, with future generations of fighters potentially reaching new levels of skill and athleticism.
-
The Impact of Social Media:
- Kevin Lee shares his perspective on the impact of social media on MMA, acknowledging both its benefits and drawbacks.
- He expresses concerns about the pressure to maintain a certain online persona and the potential for social media to become a distraction.
- Lee believes that social media can be a powerful tool for promotion and connection, but it’s important to maintain a healthy balance.
- He expresses hopes that social media platforms will evolve in ways that prioritize authenticity and well-being.
-
The Importance of Finding Your Identity:
- Kevin Lee emphasizes the importance of finding your authentic self, both within and outside of MMA.
- He recognizes that fighting has allowed him to express himself in ways he was unable to before, finding a sense of liberation.
- Lee stresses the importance of embracing individuality and being comfortable with who you are, both in and out of the Octagon.
- He suggests that being true to yourself is crucial for both personal and professional fulfillment.
-
The Evolution of the UFC:
- Kevin Lee shares his insights on the UFC’s evolving business model, acknowledging the shift towards streaming and the need for increased transparency.
- He discusses the impact of the UFC’s ESPN deal on fighter compensation and the potential for a fighter’s union.
- Lee believes that the UFC is in a transitional phase, adapting to a changing landscape of media and fan engagement.
- He recognizes the need for better communication and a more equitable system for fighters in the future.
-
The Importance of Respect:
- Kevin Lee emphasizes the importance of respecting fellow fighters, acknowledging the dangers and sacrifices involved in the sport.
- He discusses the need for a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding among fighters, recognizing the shared experience.
- Lee highlights the importance of giving respect to those who have earned it, both inside and outside of the Octagon.
- He believes that respect is essential for maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the sport.
-
The Future of Kevin Lee:
- Kevin Lee is focused on achieving his goals in MMA, determined to become a UFC champion.
- He believes that his recent fight with dos Anjos, despite the loss, has provided valuable lessons and motivated him to continue striving for improvement.
- Lee is confident in his abilities and the path he is taking, acknowledging that he is still young and has a lot to offer the sport.
- He is excited about the future, eager to face new challenges and prove himself against the best in the world.
-
The Importance of Finding the Right Coach:
- Kevin Lee highlights the importance of finding the right coach, someone who can guide him towards achieving his goals.
- He is seeking a coach with experience, expertise, and a proven track record, someone he can learn from and trust.
- Lee believes that the right coach can make a significant difference in a fighter’s journey, providing both technical and mental support.
- He is actively exploring different options and seeking out coaches who align with his goals and training style.
-
The Evolution of MMA Technique:
- Kevin Lee discusses the evolution of MMA technique, recognizing the growing emphasis on leg locks and submissions.
- He acknowledges that MMA is a constantly evolving sport, with fighters constantly seeking new ways to gain an advantage.
- Lee believes that the next generation of fighters will be more adept at leg locks and other submission techniques, further enhancing the sport’s complexity.
- He is eager to learn and adapt, staying ahead of the curve in terms of technical development.
-
The Importance of Mental Toughness:
- Kevin Lee stresses the importance of mental toughness in MMA, recognizing that it is a key factor in success.
- He highlights the need for fighters to have the mental strength to withstand adversity and pressure, both inside and outside of the Octagon.
- Lee believes that mental toughness is developed through experience, training, and a strong belief in oneself.
- He emphasizes the need for fighters to stay focused on their goals and remain committed to their journey, even when facing setbacks.
-
The Importance of Balance:
- Kevin Lee recognizes the importance of finding a balance between different aspects of MMA, including strength and conditioning, technique, and strategy.
- He acknowledges that a well-rounded approach is essential for success, ensuring that no area is neglected.
- Lee highlights the need for fighters to find the right balance for their individual needs and strengths.
- He believes that a balanced approach can lead to more consistent and sustainable success.
5 Memorable Quotes
- “It’s a fight, you’re gonna be tired. But I still think I have my legs underneath me and still could. I could have played it better tactically.”
- “I hate losing. I really do. But I don’t really get hung up on the results that much. I hate not performing at your potential.”
- “I need somebody smarter than me. I’m just so real, man. Everybody’s smarter than you. That’s not you. I’m sure like they could see you in a way that you can’t see you.”
- “I really don’t give a fuck about nobody else or or what they doing or what they got going on. And it lets me like just be me and just flow with it and just and just have fun.”
- “I think anybody that can be a professional fighter at the highest level, that is an incredible juggling act of mind and body and discipline and technique and knowledge and understanding of the past and recognizing traps and and intuition. Knowing when to strike, knowing when to back off, knowing when to push, knowing when to coast. It’s just, that’s a mad fucking race.”