JRE MMA Show #82 with Israel Adesanya

11-Nov-19

JRE MMA Show #82 with Israel Adesanya – Topic Breakdown

Joe Rogan sits down with UFC Middleweight Champion, Israel “The Last Stylebender” Adesanya. This podcast is a captivating blend of fighting talk and philosophical insights.

1. Adesanya’s UFC Title Reign and Double Interim Champ:
   • Adesanya discusses the feeling of becoming UFC champ and the double interim title he claimed, arguing that his last fight felt like his first title defense because he was waiting for the official title to be his.
   • He talks about the “ruby” that is awarded to UFC champions and how it adds a touch of unique flair to the championship belt.
   • Adesanya’s initial skepticism about the new championship belt and how he came to appreciate its design, reflecting a more personal connection to the symbol of his achievement.
   • The importance of the belt as a reminder of hard work and commitment, yet not allowing it to define him as a fighter, underscoring the importance of maintaining focus and pushing forward.
2. The Nature of Colby Covington’s Act:
   • Adesanya breaks down Colby Covington’s persona as a “pro wrestling heel” and how it is a strong, carefully crafted act to garner attention and generate controversy.
   • He highlights the contrast between Covington’s public persona and his respectful behavior in real life, suggesting that it’s all part of a calculated strategy to build hype and appeal.
   • Covington’s “goof” image with his blue suit and cowboy hat is contrasted with his genuine skill and athleticism in the ring, a deceptive contrast that fools casual viewers and enhances the intrigue of his character.
   • The act of playing a heel, while controversial, can be effective in building a larger fanbase and drawing in viewers, highlighting the power of character-building within combat sports.
3. The Importance of Mental Strength in the Fifth Round:
   • Adesanya discusses his mental state in the fifth round of his fight against Kelvin Gastelum, confessing that he was willing to die to win and that this mindset fueled his relentless aggression.
   • The importance of being prepared to sacrifice everything to achieve victory, pushing beyond physical limitations to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the fight.
   • The mental strength required to push through adversity, even when facing significant physical exhaustion, demonstrating the resilience required to become a champion.
   • The difference in mindset between a fighter who is merely trying to survive and one who is prepared to go the extra mile, a crucial difference in achieving ultimate victory.
4. Adesanya’s Thoughts on “Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO):
   • Adesanya acknowledges the constant pressure to train and stay at the top of his game, driven by the “fear of missing out” (FOMO) that he observes in his training partners.
   • This pressure is intensified by the constant awareness of potential challengers and the desire to maintain his championship status, highlighting the high stakes within combat sports.
   • Adesanya’s ambition to build a legacy like Demetrious Johnson and Henry Cejudo, aiming to dominate his division and become a legend in the sport, illustrating the pursuit of greatness that drives many fighters.
   • The need to balance FOMO with strategic planning, avoiding unnecessary risks and focusing on the long-term goal of building a successful and sustainable career, underscoring the importance of calculated risk-taking within the sport.
5. The BMF Belt and Its Significance:
   • Adesanya offers his take on the BMF (Baddest Motherfucker) belt and its impact on the UFC. He appreciates the idea of a “street-level gangster” rivalry but believes that it could have been kept between the competitors and not elevated to a formal title by the UFC.
   • He suggests that the belt was created to enhance the hype around the MSG card, which featured Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz, highlighting the UFC’s strategic use of titles to attract viewers.
   • Adesanya questions the legacy of the BMF belt and whether it will be defended in future fights, acknowledging that its value is debatable within the greater context of UFC championship belts.
   • The BMF belt represents a departure from traditional UFC titles, demonstrating the evolving nature of combat sports and its embrace of larger-than-life personalities.
6. Jorge Masvidal’s Resurgence and Future Potential:
   • Adesanya discusses Jorge Masvidal’s incredible comeback and newfound confidence, praising his rebranding and his fierce determination to become a dominant force in the sport.
   • Masvidal’s decision to step out of the spotlight and reflect on his career after a disappointing reality show experience, ultimately leading to a shift in his mindset, highlighting the importance of personal growth and self-reflection in combat sports.
   • Masvidal’s desire to knockout his opponents, a distinct change from his previous approach, demonstrating a more aggressive and fearless fighting style that has made him a formidable opponent.
   • The potential for Masvidal to achieve great things, even considering his age and past challenges, showcasing the power of perseverance and a strong work ethic to overcome obstacles.
7. Adesanya’s Style and Appreciation for Movement:
   • Adesanya discusses his mastery of striking and how it gives him a significant advantage in any fight, highlighting the importance of striking as a foundational skill in MMA.
   • He explains how his knowledge of his opponents’ movements, both from observing fights and sparring, allows him to anticipate their actions and execute calculated strikes, demonstrating the strategic thinking required to become a successful fighter.
   • He expresses frustration with critics who claim he lacks knockout power, arguing that his striking is about setting up opportunities and exploiting weaknesses, underscoring the importance of strategic striking over raw power.
   • Adesanya’s unique approach to striking and his ability to anticipate and exploit his opponents’ movements, a testament to his mastery of the art of combat and his dedication to studying the intricacies of the sport.
8. Adesanya’s Thoughts on a Fight with Jon Jones:
   • Adesanya’s clash with Jon Jones on social media is discussed, where both fighters exchanged words and playfully jousted with each other. Adesanya believes that Jones sees him as the fighter he could have been, lamenting Jones’s past mistakes and the missed opportunities he had.
   • Adesanya acknowledges that despite Jones’s championship status and undefeated record, there are arguments to be made against his “true” undefeated status, referencing Jones’s past controversies and the way they’ve impacted his reputation within the sport.
   • Adesanya’s ambition to fight Jones and drag him back down to earth, a fight he believes would be a massive event for the UFC, showcasing the excitement surrounding a potential matchup between two of the greatest fighters of their era.
   • The clash between Adesanya and Jones reflects the complexities of legacy and redemption within combat sports, where past mistakes can overshadow current achievements, highlighting the constant struggle to maintain a positive image while striving for greatness.
9. Yoel Romero’s Uniqueness and the “Proven Necktie”:
   • Adesanya discusses Yoel Romero as a “freak athlete” and a unique fighter who pushes him to his limits. He praises Romero’s ability to take punishment and his incredibly powerful strikes, underscoring the challenge that Romero presents to any opponent.
   • Adesanya talks about the “Proven Necktie,” a submission hold that Romero is known for, highlighting the effectiveness of this technique and its impact on the fight game.
   • Adesanya’s desire to fight Romero and potentially defeat him, acknowledging the massive hype surrounding a potential matchup between these two elite fighters, demonstrating the high stakes and global intrigue surrounding their potential confrontation.
   • Romero’s remarkable resilience and unorthodox fighting style, a testament to his dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt and overcome challenges, illustrating the diverse range of skills and approaches that define the world of combat sports.
10. The Importance of Natural Beauty and Finding Home in New Zealand:
    • Adesanya discusses his love for New Zealand and how its natural beauty played a role in his decision to make it his home, highlighting the importance of finding a place where he feels connected to his surroundings.
    • He reflects on the allure of New Zealand’s landscape, showcasing the stark contrast between New Zealand and the more urban settings he often encounters during his travels, illustrating the value of diverse environments and their impact on mental well-being.
    • Adesanya’s appreciation for New Zealand’s wildlife, including its unique species and the potential for encountering exotic animals, highlighting the diverse ecosystem that contributes to New Zealand’s unique character.
    • The importance of finding a place that feels like home, a place where he can relax, reconnect with nature, and draw inspiration from the surroundings, illustrating the personal and cultural connection that is often forged through experiencing different landscapes.
11. The Impact of Diet on Mental and Physical Performance:
    • Adesanya discusses how his diet has drastically impacted his mental and physical performance, highlighting the importance of nutritional choices on athletic performance and overall well-being.
    • He recounts how his diet played a significant role in his recovery from injury and the positive changes he experienced in his training camp, emphasizing the impact of nutrition on the body’s resilience and ability to heal.
    • Adesanya’s interest in consuming wild game and his understanding of its nutritional value, demonstrating the conscious approach he takes to fueling his body, highlighting the importance of quality nutrition in maximizing athletic potential.
    • The link between diet, mental health, and physical performance, showcasing the holistic approach that Adesanya takes to his training and his overall approach to fitness, illustrating the interconnected nature of physical and mental well-being.
12. The Power of Storytelling and Validating Pain:
    • Adesanya discusses the importance of sharing stories and validating the experiences of others, emphasizing the need to give a voice to those who have been silenced or marginalized.
    • He recognizes the power of storytelling as a tool to connect with people and build empathy, acknowledging the impact of shared experiences on building a sense of community.
    • Adesanya’s commitment to using his platform to promote inclusivity and understanding, showcasing the responsibility that comes with being a public figure and the potential to inspire and uplift others, illustrating the powerful impact of storytelling on shaping perspectives and promoting positive change.
    • The need to challenge societal norms and break down barriers to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, demonstrating the importance of using a platform to champion causes that promote equality and understanding.
13. The Power of Humility and Owning Success:
    • Adesanya discusses his perspective on humility and its meaning, arguing that it’s not about downplaying success but about remaining grounded and recognizing the constant challenges in combat sports.
    • He challenges the idea of “crabs in a bucket” mentality, where individuals try to pull each other down, asserting that he doesn’t operate with this mindset and believes in uplifting those around him.
    • Adesanya’s willingness to confront critics and challenge negative narratives, demonstrating a strong sense of self-belief and confidence, showcasing the importance of standing up for oneself and refusing to be defined by others’ expectations.
    • The importance of embracing success with a balanced perspective, acknowledging the journey that led to achievement while maintaining a commitment to continuous improvement, highlighting the importance of owning achievements while staying grounded and humble.
14. The Nigerian Culture and Its Impact on Adesanya’s Life:
    • Adesanya discusses the Nigerian culture and its impact on his life and upbringing, emphasizing the strength and resilience of his people, showcasing his cultural pride and how it has shaped his perspective.
    • He reflects on the unique blend of intelligence and athleticism within his community, illustrating the diverse range of talents that Nigerians bring to the world, highlighting the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and the unique contributions that different communities make to society.
    • Adesanya’s desire to use his platform to inspire young Nigerians and encourage them to pursue their passions, demonstrating his commitment to supporting his community and empowering future generations, showcasing the power of mentorship and guidance in fostering positive change.
    • The importance of recognizing the potential within a community and fostering an environment that encourages growth and success, illustrating the role of culture and heritage in shaping an individual’s identity and aspirations.
15. The Importance of Recognizing and Defending Against Scams:
    • Adesanya acknowledges the negative stereotype associated with Nigerian scammers, but argues that this is a generalization that doesn’t represent the true diversity and talent within the Nigerian community.
    • He discusses the resourcefulness of Nigerians and how it has led them to find creative solutions in challenging circumstances, highlighting the need to understand the root causes of certain behaviors and avoid making sweeping judgments about entire communities.
    • Adesanya’s desire to bring attention to the positive aspects of Nigerian culture and showcase the talents and achievements of his people, emphasizing the importance of challenging negative stereotypes and promoting a more nuanced understanding of different cultures.
    • The importance of recognizing and protecting oneself against scams while acknowledging the diverse and often misunderstood realities of different communities, highlighting the need to cultivate a more critical and informed perspective on global issues and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
16. The Significance of a Fight Against Jorge Masvidal:
    • Adesanya highlights his desire to fight Jorge Masvidal, believing it to be the most compelling fight in the division at this time, acknowledging the high stakes and intense rivalry that would fuel this potential matchup.
    • Adesanya’s belief that Masvidal is one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, recognizing his skills and potential to challenge his championship status, underscoring the constant need to push oneself to new limits and embrace challenging opponents.
    • The rivalry between Adesanya and Masvidal, fueled by their personalities and their desire to prove themselves as the best, adding a layer of intrigue and excitement to a potential fight, highlighting the allure of high-stakes rivalries within combat sports.
    • The potential for a clash of styles between Adesanya’s striking prowess and Masvidal’s aggressive, fearless approach, a captivating matchup that could produce a thrilling and memorable fight, showcasing the diverse range of fighting styles that make combat sports so captivating.
17. The Importance of Mental Health Awareness and Seeking Help:
    • Adesanya discusses his own experience with seeking therapy after his UFC debut, highlighting the importance of prioritizing mental health and seeking professional help when needed.
    • He challenges the stigma surrounding mental health and encourages others to be proactive in looking after their well-being, acknowledging the need to break down barriers and promote a more open dialogue about mental health.
    • Adesanya’s willingness to share his personal story and encourage others to seek professional help, demonstrating the importance of being vulnerable and supporting those who may be struggling, highlighting the need to cultivate a more compassionate and understanding approach to mental health.
    • The importance of recognizing that mental health is just as vital as physical health, promoting a holistic approach to well-being and emphasizing the need to prioritize both aspects of a healthy life, showcasing the importance of taking care of oneself and seeking help when needed.
18. The Impact of Unprecedented Success at a Young Age:
    • Adesanya reflects on the potential pitfalls of achieving unprecedented success at a young age, referencing Mike Tyson’s experience as an example of how early fame can be challenging to navigate.
    • He acknowledges the pressure and expectations that come with being a champion and the importance of having the right support system in place, illustrating the need for guidance and mentorship in managing the complexities of fame and fortune.
    • Adesanya’s perspective on how his own personal growth and maturation helped him handle the pressures of fame, showcasing the importance of self-awareness and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, highlighting the need to learn from experiences and evolve as a person.
    • The importance of finding a balance between ambition and personal well-being, recognizing the potential for both personal and professional growth while navigating the challenges of a high-pressure environment.
19. Adesanya’s Thoughts on the “Matrix” and Manifestation:
    • Adesanya discusses his belief in the power of manifestation and how his current success feels like a culmination of his past actions and dreams, highlighting the importance of setting goals and visualizing the future.
    • He reflects on the strange feeling of seeing his face on people’s bodies, recognizing the impact he has on others and the power of his image as a cultural symbol, demonstrating the powerful impact of representation and the way it can inspire others.
    • Adesanya’s perspective on the “Matrix” and the interconnectedness of our reality, acknowledging the power of belief and the role it plays in shaping our experiences, showcasing a more philosophical approach to life and success.
    • The importance of believing in oneself and the power of one’s dreams, showcasing the importance of staying optimistic and pursuing goals with unwavering determination, reflecting the power of belief and the potential for manifesting one’s dreams into reality.

5 Memorable Quotes from the Podcast

• “I feel like I just defended the belt because technically I was the champ as well. I was the champ and if he had beat me, he had to go one of those rubies you put on this.” – Adesanya emphasizes the symbolic value of the UFC championship and the significance of the ruby that is awarded to champions.
• “That’s a strong act he put on when they were ready to cut him. They were ready to cut you. Talk to that guy in real life he’s very respectful. Just being around him, just being in, he’s the nicest guy. He’s a nice guy man, he’s playing a pro wrestling heel.” – Adesanya highlights the calculated nature of Colby Covington’s act and the contrast between his public persona and his real-life personality.
• “I meant that shit because I was like, ‘Look, if this is how I die, this is how I die, but you see me, I was trying to get him, I was trying to kill him.'” – Adesanya reveals the intense mental state he entered during his fight against Kelvin Gastelum, showcasing the sheer determination and will to win that defined his performance.
• “I’ll outgrow those those comparisons. I was like, ‘Oh, they’re gonna forget about this.’ So now they’re not comparing us, they’re saying, ‘Oh, let’s watch them fight.'” – Adesanya confidently asserts his belief in exceeding the expectations and comparisons that have been made between him and Jon Jones.
• “I don’t do any interviews with them. If they talk to me, I just next. You know, that episode of Black Mirror, when he blocks someone, I’ve blocked him. I won’t report with that.” – Adesanya highlights his willingness to stand up for himself and refuse to engage with individuals who he believes are trying to undermine or exploit him.