JRE MMA Show #137 with Jorge Masvidal

Maintaining a beginner's mindset and continuously learning are essential for longevity in any field, especially in combat sports. The speaker, Rob, shares his experience of keeping natural and avoiding shortcuts that can lead to injuries and early retirement. He also emphasizes the importance of proper rehabilitation and seeking the best resources for injury recovery instead of opting for surgery. Rob's most painful injury was a high crotch kick that caused damage to his eye and required him to wear an eye patch for five weeks. Despite numerous injuries, he emphasizes the importance of pushing through and focusing on rehabilitation to maintain peak performance.

The use of stem cell therapy played a significant role in the interviewee's recovery from injuries sustained during his UFC career. He shared his experiences of undergoing the treatment in California and Colombia, emphasizing the benefits of traveling abroad for comprehensive healing. The interviewee also discussed the challenges of making weight for fights, particularly as he aged, and how his move to the heavyweight division at 70 has been advantageous for his strength and longevity. He expressed concern for fighters who continue to dehydrate themselves excessively and questioned the long-term effects on their bodies. Ultimately, the interviewee expressed confidence in his upcoming fight against Gilbert, believing his striking abilities would give him an edge against his opponent's wrestling skills.

The upcoming welterweight fight between Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman in Miami promises to be an exciting event, with added pressure for Burns as he competes in his home city. The division is heating up with tensions between Burns and Usman, who recently retained his title. A strong performance by Burns could potentially skip the line for a title shot. Usman's last fight against Colby Covington was criticized for being lackluster, and some believe he took the fight too soon after his loss to Burns. Burns, who has never been knocked out in his career, was surprised by Usman's increased power in their rematch and felt disrespected, leading to his intense desire for a rematch. The lengthy layoff between fights was a result of his coaches ensuring both his physical and mental readiness.

Overcoming setbacks and personal growth are crucial for success, not just in sports but in life. The speaker shares his experience of being knocked out in a fight and the emotional impact it had on him. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and finding ways to improve, even when things are going well. The speaker also mentions how he's found inspiration in Jordan Peterson's teachings and how they've helped him identify and overcome bad habits that were holding him back. The key takeaway is that we all have room for growth, and being open to change and self-improvement can lead to greater success and fulfillment.

Sleep is essential for both physical and mental recovery, and neglecting it can have negative consequences. The speaker shares his personal experience of pushing sleep boundaries since his teenage years, but as he aged, he realized the importance of prioritizing good sleep for optimal performance. He emphasizes that sleep is crucial for recovery, focus, and confidence, and not getting enough can hinder an individual's ability to perform at their best. The speaker also mentions the importance of studying opponents and creating game plans, highlighting the discipline and dedication required to excel in competitive sports.

Dedication and hard work in a competitive field, such as mixed martial arts, eventually comes to an end. The speaker, who has been in the sport for 20 years, shares his decision to retire when he can no longer keep up with the best middleweight, Johnny Evelyn. He values the love and respect for the sport but also acknowledges the reality of biological limits. The speaker also expresses admiration for athletes like Vitor Belfort, who transformed their careers with pharmacological interventions, but wishes for a fairer testing system for all athletes. The conversation highlights the importance of acknowledging the end of a career and the need for a level playing field in competitive sports.

Inconsistent and intrusive drug testing in mixed martial arts, particularly close to fights, can significantly disrupt athletes' training and mental preparation, potentially putting them at risk of injury. The speaker believes that testing should be fair and consistent, and suggests a minimum of 30 tests per year for all fighters, with more testing for those considered high-risk. He also advocates for outlawing weight cutting and implementing stricter weight monitoring during training camps. The speaker expresses frustration with the UFC's recent overzealous testing methods, specifically targeting IV use for rehydration, which he believes is unnecessary and potentially harmful to fighters' health.

Top fighters in combat sports conserve energy and assess their opponents in the early rounds, unleashing their full potential later on. They are highly competitive and mean-spirited, using every tool at their disposal to secure a win. One such tool is the calf kick, which may not seem significant to the average observer but can cause immense pain and disrupt an opponent's balance and mobility. The calf kick has become increasingly popular in various combat sports, with fighters like Wonder Boy and Benson Henderson using it effectively to gain an edge. The impact of a calf kick may not be immediately apparent, but the pain can accumulate and become debilitating if not addressed.

Sanchai's unique Muay Thai style, particularly his mastery of sweeps and unconventional angles, sets him apart as an exceptional fighter. His ability to off-balance opponents and send them flying across the ring leaves them disoriented and vulnerable. Despite his unimpressive appearance and fighting larger opponents, Sanchai's skill and playful demeanor make him a fan favorite. Unfortunately, there are few MMA fighters who emulate his Muay Thai techniques, leaving a gap in the sport for the sweeps and complex strategies that Sanchai brings to the table.

Mental strength and commitment are crucial in sports, even when faced with severe injuries. Ramon Dekkers, a legendary MMA fighter, is an inspiring example of this. Despite suffering a broken ankle that required a fuse, he continued to fight, showing an unwavering commitment to his craft. Other fighters like Tyrone Spong and Anderson Silva have also faced similar injuries and struggled to regain their form. The mental fortitude required to push through such adversity is a testament to the resilience of athletes and their dedication to their sport. Additionally, the upcoming fight between Roy Jones Jr. and Anthony Pettis on a joint UFC-boxing promotion is an exciting development in the world of combat sports.

A longtime friend of Roy Jones Jr. named Donald "Brad Pitt" Serone, who is known for his adventurous activities like cave diving, has been training extensively and expressed his desire to fight. The friend was once set to face Roy Jones Jr. in a boxing match, but Serone's opponent, Donald Cerrone, had a significant win instead. Serone, who is in excellent shape and has a background in MMA, poses an intriguing challenge for boxing with his speed, power, and unpredictable style. While he may not be a technically superior boxer, his MMA background could bring unique elements to the ring. Jones Jr.'s legendary defensive skills and unparalleled career without being knocked out make him a formidable opponent. The potential matchup between these two athletes, despite the challenges, could result in an exciting and unpredictable fight.

Floyd Mayweather's career in boxing was marked by his exceptional hand speed, defensive skills, and ability to avoid and land shots at the right moments. He faced notable opponents like Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez, and Arturo Gotti, and despite some setbacks like hand injuries, he continued to improve and adapt. Mayweather's impact on the sport extended beyond the ring, as he set the bar for upcoming fighters with his discipline, technique, and intelligence. His business ventures outside of boxing have also been successful, and he continues to make headlines for his wealth and extravagant lifestyle. Overall, Floyd Mayweather's story is one of dedication, resilience, and excellence.

Floyd Mayweather's unique business model in boxing has allowed him to amass a significant fortune both during and after his career. His promotional company enabled him to earn substantial revenues, even in fights where he made less in purse money. Mayweather's small stature and disciplined lifestyle have allowed him to maintain his skills and continue to attract opponents, even in exhibitions. His longevity and consistency in the sport are remarkable, with a record for most title defenses. Bernard Hopkins shares similarities with Mayweather, having remained world-class into his 50s. Both boxers' disciplined lifestyles and commitment to their craft have contributed to their success and longevity in the sport.

Roy Jones Jr. was a remarkable fighter in his prime, known for his exceptional speed, technique, and knockout power. His fights were executions, leaving opponents and spectators in awe. However, his decision to move up to heavyweight took a toll on his career, and he was never the same after. Despite his age, Roy still exhibits impressive speed and power, making his upcoming fight against Pettis an intriguing matchup between experience and youth. Jones's impact on the sport and his unique fighting style continue to inspire fans and new generations of fighters.

Roy Jones Jr. was an extraordinary boxer with exceptional speed, power, and skills, leaving a significant impact on the sport. His prime was marked by impressive victories, including a historic round where Vinny Pazienza landed zero punches. Despite his retirement, his legacy continues to draw attention, and his potential opponent, Pettis, could benefit financially and professionally from a win against him. Jones's striking abilities and reflexes were unmatched, making their matchup an exciting prospect for fans. Additionally, Jones was known for his clutch performances and ability to adapt to different fighting styles, showcasing his versatility in the ring.

While the right to bear arms is a constitutional right, it comes with responsibility. Obtaining a gun permit is important for safety and proper handling. Florida has relatively lenient gun laws, but carrying a gun in public requires permission. The speaker emphasizes the importance of learning gun safety and handling, just as one would with a driver's license. The speaker also expresses concern about the potential consequences of lenient criminal justice policies and the importance of keeping law enforcement. They criticize policies that they believe lead to increased crime and the release of dangerous individuals. The speaker also touches on their views on certain political figures and policies, expressing skepticism towards socialism and communism.

There are concerns about political figures, including President Biden, and their potential involvement in questionable deals and policies. Critics argue that Biden's age and past record, including alleged lies and compromises, disqualify him for another term. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential consequences of certain political actions, such as potential wars and the distribution of wealth. Furthermore, there are warnings about the instability of financial institutions and the potential for economic collapse if a significant number of people withdraw their money. Overall, there is a sense of unease and uncertainty about the current political landscape and its potential impact on individuals and communities.

The crypto world, particularly FTX and its executives, have been under scrutiny for alleged fraud and money laundering activities. The consequences of such actions could lead to significant financial losses for individuals and even potential economic collapse if mass panic ensues. The use of large amounts of money for political donations has raised eyebrows, adding to the perception of shady dealings. The FTX executives' lifestyle, reportedly involving drugs and orgies, has only fueled the intrigue. Despite the CEO's assertion that it's just old-school fraud in the crypto world, the fallout has been devastating for many, with some even resorting to suicide due to financial ruin. The situation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in financial dealings, especially in the rapidly evolving crypto market.

During a discussion about Tim Dillon's comedy routine regarding Caroline Ellison and Sam Bankman-Fried's relationships and wealth, the speaker expressed that wealth doesn't guarantee perfection or desirability in personal relationships. The speaker also touched upon the absurdity of the world's current events, including political figures and financial scandals. Additionally, there were mentions of Kamala Harris and concerns about her mental health, as well as President Biden's health and potential falls. Overall, the conversation showcased a sense of humor and skepticism towards the elite and their perceived privileges.

Socialism and communism have a history of leading to terrible outcomes, according to the speaker. He shares personal stories of family members escaping from communist countries and warns against the dangers of these ideologies. The speaker believes that these systems always result in top-down power structures, dictatorships, and poverty for the majority, while the elite enjoy wealth and privileges. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong economy and small government to benefit the poor and create opportunities for everyone. The speaker also expresses concern about the growing influence of socialism and communism in the United States and believes that the country serves as a beacon of hope for the world when it is doing well.

The speaker believes that giving governments complete control over social media, digital currency, and travel is a slippery slope towards authoritarianism, citing China as an example. He values the freedom and opportunities available in the United States, which he sees as the greatest country, and emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and hard work. Additionally, the speaker shares his personal journey from being an immigrant to a multimillionaire and expresses his dedication to training and sharpening his skills, whether it's for MMA or business. He also mentions his belief in focusing on a few key things and getting numerous repetitions to master them. Despite his success, he acknowledges the importance of monitoring one's heart rate and taking care of oneself, but expresses skepticism towards certain training methods. Overall, the speaker emphasizes the importance of personal growth, hard work, and freedom.

While technology like Whoop can be helpful for monitoring physical performance and suggesting rest, individuals, especially those in combat sports, may still need to trust their own bodies and mental strength to push through challenges and reach their goals. The speaker shares his personal experience of using Whoop for monitoring his sleep and workouts, but also recognizes the importance of mental resilience and physical determination, even when facing injuries or discomfort. He uses the example of David Goggins, a renowned endurance athlete with severely damaged knees, to illustrate the power of the mind in overcoming physical limitations.

The atmosphere and community at American Top Team (ATT) fosters intense mental and physical strength, pushing individuals to constantly improve and compete at the highest level. Founded by Dan Lambert out of love for MMA, ATT has produced numerous top fighters, including Evelyn, Johnny, and Douglas Lima. The camp's rigorous training methods and supportive environment have helped shape some of the best talent in the sport, inspiring competitors to reach their full potential. Despite the challenges and obstacles, the dedication and commitment to the sport have kept ATT at the forefront of mixed martial arts.

The key to a successful knockout in combat sports isn't just physical strength, but also understanding your opponent's instincts and using unpredictability to your advantage. The speaker shared an iconic example of a knockout he witnessed, where he exploited his opponent's natural reaction and celebrated in a way that further disoriented him. The speaker also emphasized the importance of studying opponents and identifying patterns to capitalize on in the moment. This approach, he argued, was evident in one of the greatest knockouts in the history of the sport.

Conor McGregor's explosive and quick fighting style, combined with his impeccable timing and ability to read opponents, allowed him to defeat legendary fighter Aldo and become a UFC champion. McGregor's dedication to studying his opponents and mastering various fighting techniques, as well as his mental strength to endure grueling weight cuts, set him apart as an extraordinary athletic freak and one of the greatest fighters of all time. Despite the toll on his body, McGregor's unique abilities and determination have earned him numerous accolades and a loyal fanbase. Another notable figure mentioned was Yoel Romero, a Cuban wrestler and UFC fighter known for his exceptional athleticism, flexibility, and strength, who turned himself into a fighting machine through rigorous training and discipline.

Chris Weidman is an exceptional athlete with an impressive background and unique abilities. His slow and casual demeanor belies his incredible strength and power, making him a formidable opponent in the octagon. Weidman's tendons are three times larger than average, and his orbital fracture healed rapidly due to his extraordinary physique. He was a disciplined and dedicated fighter, even before joining the UFC at the age of 36. Weidman's background in Cuba's rigorous training program turned him into a formidable machine. His wrestling skills were second nature to him, and he was a quick learner on the ground. Weidman's intelligence and adaptability were evident in his fights, as he continuously evolved and improved. Despite being a nightmare to face on the mat, Weidman is a nice guy outside of competition. His journey from Cuba to becoming a multiple champion in the UFC is truly extraordinary.

Elite-level wrestling is a crucial base for MMA fighters due to its ability to dictate where the fight goes. The speaker, who has focused on wrestling for the majority of his career, emphasizes the importance of endurance and efficiency in wrestling exchanges. Frustrating losses for him have been against wrestling-heavy opponents, and he is currently preparing for a fight against Gilbert Burns with a renewed focus on training. The speaker's success in the sport comes from his grappling skills, both offensively and defensively, and his natural ability in striking. His most notable wins include against Darren Till and in his own hometown. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and training, regardless of the opponent.

Even after facing multiple setbacks and hardships, including legal issues, injuries, and career disappointments, the individual discussed in this conversation has managed to turn his life around and find success through determination, hard work, and a refusal to give up. He shares how he cut out negativity and focused on his mental and physical health, ultimately leading him to a better place. Despite facing challenges in his career, including last-minute fights and disagreements with the UFC, he remained committed to his goals and continued to train and prepare. The individual's resilience and perseverance serve as an inspiration to never give up on one's dreams, no matter how difficult the journey may be.

Personal relationships can turn sour and lead to bitter rivalries in the world of mixed martial arts. The speaker recounted his experiences with a former training partner, who once lived with him and shared meals and training sessions. However, when the speaker began to gain more recognition and success in the sport, the former training partner turned against him, using their past friendship as ammunition for public insults and attacks. The speaker expressed deep disappointment and anger towards this former friend, who he felt had betrayed him and exploited their history for personal gain. This experience highlights the potential for betrayal and the importance of maintaining trust and loyalty in professional and personal relationships.

The interviewee, despite having faced challenges and setbacks in his MMA career, remains determined to improve and eventually face a particular opponent. He believes that he can still learn and grow, especially in areas like wrestling, and intends to continue training with top coaches to do so. Additionally, he criticizes certain rules in MMA that he feels favor grappling over striking, and expresses frustration over being unable to use all of his skills effectively in the cage. Ultimately, his goal is to prove himself against his toughest opponent and leave a lasting impression on the MMA community.

The rules in mixed martial arts (MMA) regarding striking certain areas of an opponent, such as the back of the head or the grounded position, are subjects of ongoing debate. Some argue that these rules are unrealistic and favor certain fighting styles, while others believe they are necessary for safety and fairness. For instance, the vulnerability of being on one's knees in a wrestling position or having one's back exposed in a scramble is a concern, as these positions can leave fighters open to attacks that might not occur in real-life situations. Similarly, the legality of striking the back of an opponent's head during wild exchanges or scrambles is a contentious issue, with some arguing that it should be allowed due to the potential for counterattacks and increased action. Ultimately, the debate highlights the complexities of balancing safety, fairness, and realism in MMA rules.

The interviewee expresses a preference for bare knuckle MMA, believing it to be a more realistic and powerful form of combat. He also mentions his experiences with various fighters and techniques, such as tie-teeps and heel hooks, and expresses confusion over the legality of certain moves in comparison to others. The interviewee also shares stories of old-school training methods and the benefits of bare knuckle fighting, including a more precise use of hands and a more natural sense of combat. He also expresses a desire to eliminate the cage in MMA and explore new ways to reduce variables in the sport.

The absence of a cage in striking-based combat sports like kickboxing and Muay Thai allows for a more open and dynamic fighting style, making it an exciting and marketable spectacle for audiences. The Dutch and European styles of these combat sports have produced numerous elite strikers and assassins, but their popularity in America has been limited due to inadequate promotion. However, if major promotions like the UFC were to invest in these sports, they could potentially rival the popularity of MMA and professional boxing. The action-packed nature of striking combat, with its quick clinch breaks and emphasis on powerful strikes, appeals to a wide range of fans and requires minimal knowledge to enjoy. The longevity and continued success of fighters like Bas Rutten and Nicky Holzken are testament to the enduring appeal of striking-based combat sports.

Muay Thai, a combat sport known for its full-contact striking using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, has the potential to gain more popularity in America due to its excitement and strategic nature. The speaker expresses frustration over the lack of recognition and financial success for Muay Thai fighters compared to those in other combat sports like UFC. They reminisce about the glory days of K-1 in Japan, where fighters faced off multiple times against each other and delivered incredible knockout fights. The speaker believes Muay Thai fits better than the currently popular slap fighting in the UFC and argues that it requires more skill and strategy. They also highlight the dedication and talent of young Muay Thai fighters and express confusion over why it hasn't gained more fame in America. Overall, the speaker passionately advocates for the recognition and growth of Muay Thai as a combat sport.

The featherweight division in MMA history has been filled with exceptional fighters, each with unique strengths and techniques. Two standouts are Jose Aldo and Demetrious Johnson. Aldo's dominance in the division, particularly his ability to take down and control opponents, earned him the title of potentially the best grappler in the sport. Johnson, on the other hand, showcased unparalleled technique and endurance, finishing opponents with ease despite their smaller stature. Both fighters faced top-tier opponents and emerged victorious, solidifying their legacies as all-time greats. The featherweight division may not always receive the same attention as heavier weight classes, but its history is filled with exciting and influential fights.

Nate Diaz, a fighter known for his relentless spirit and unique background, continues to push boundaries in the MMA world. With a drive that borders on exhaustion, Diaz has made a name for himself by never giving up, even against larger opponents. His immigrant mentality and dedication to training, including high-altitude camps, have contributed to his success. If Diaz beats Aljamaine Sterling, he could potentially become the first fighter to win three titles in three different weight classes. His upcoming fights against Marab and Volkanovski are highly anticipated, and his creative striking style and long reach make him a formidable opponent. Diaz's transformation over the years, from a wrestler with limited submission skills to a top-tier fighter, is a testament to his determination and talent.

Calvin Kattar is a formidable opponent in the UFC's featherweight division. Despite being smaller in size, Kattar's strength, grappling skills, and unorthodox striking techniques make him a force to be reckoned with. His fights against Yair Rodriguez and Jeremy Stephens showcased his ability to withstand punishment and turn the tables on his opponents. Kattar's improvement and potential for future title contention are noteworthy, making the featherweight division an exciting one to watch. Additionally, the discussion highlighted the unique challenges and skills required in the UFC, with fighters needing to excel in various areas to be successful.

Polaton, also known as Izzy, is a formidable fighter with a unique background and impressive skills. Despite facing challenges like a busted eardrum and an opponent's superior wrestling abilities, he managed to put up a strong fight against Baja. Evelyn, another skilled wrestler, is also highly regarded and could potentially make waves in the UFC. The discussion also touched on the intricacies of mixed martial arts, with the importance of defense, wrestling, and effective striking highlighted. Ultimately, the conversation showcased the excitement and unpredictability of the sport, as well as the ongoing debate about which fighters and organizations truly reign supreme.

The evolution of mixed martial arts, particularly the UFC, has been unprecedented over the past eighteen years. Fighters today are in better condition and display superior skills compared to the early 2000s. This transformation is evident in the improved striking, conditioning, and Jiu Jitsu techniques. The sport's popularity grew significantly after the Ultimate Fighter series debuted in 2005, leading to household names and record-breaking viewership. The speaker fondly recalls watching historic fights, including those of Kane Velazquez and Fedor Emelianenko, and is excited about the upcoming event featuring Pettis and other promising fighters. The collaboration between UFC and ticket master for digital rights is a testament to the sport's growing influence.

Jorge's unwavering support for his country and willingness to speak out against injustices, despite potentially facing greater risks than others, makes him a true patriot and someone deserving of gratitude and respect. This sentiment was expressed in a heartfelt exchange between two brothers, who expressed their appreciation for each other and their shared love for their country. The conversation highlighted the courage and resilience required to publicly voice opinions and stand up for what one believes in, especially in the face of adversity. The brothers' conversation ended on a positive note, emphasizing the importance of keeping America great and expressing gratitude towards each other.