JRE MMA Show #152 with Sean Brady

Injuries are a significant part of a fighter's life, and it's essential to give them proper respect. Sean Brady's discussion with Joe Rogan highlights the importance of finding a balance between intense training and injury prevention. As Brady reflects on his own experiences, he acknowledges the need for smarter training as he gets older. Ignoring injuries or pushing through them can lead to chronic conditions and longer recovery periods. Brady's story of tearing his groin due to overtraining serves as a cautionary tale. Furthermore, the conversation touches on the benefits of medical procedures like deviated septum surgery and using devices like the Oura ring to track sleep and recovery. It becomes evident that taking care of the body and giving injuries the respect they deserve can prevent further complications and improve overall performance.

Optimizing sleep and recovery can have a significant impact on overall health and performance. The conversation between Joe Rogan and Sean Brady highlights the importance of factors like breathing through the nose, using mouth tape, and incorporating CBD for better sleep quality. By monitoring metrics like heart rate and deep sleep, individuals can gain insights into their readiness and track improvements in recovery. Additionally, finding a balance between intense training and rest is crucial, as overtraining can lead to burnout and increased risk of injury. Personalized approaches, such as tailoring strength and conditioning exercises to specific needs, can further enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to strength and conditioning in MMA. Fighters have different methods and routines when it comes to balancing skill work and strength training, and there is still no consensus on what works best. Some fighters, like GSP towards the end of his career, focus solely on skills and prioritize recovery, while others incorporate intense strength and conditioning workouts to improve their gas tank. It's important for fighters to find the optimal balance that works for them and their individual needs. Experimentation and adaptation are key in the ever-evolving world of MMA training.

The process of cutting weight for fighters is a challenging and strategic task. Sean Brady's experience highlights the importance of being meticulous and disciplined in managing weight, especially in the lead-up to a fight. He emphasizes the value of being on weight the night before the weigh-in to avoid the stress and difficulty of last-minute cuts. Additionally, the conversation touches on the controversial topic of using IVs for rehydration after weight cutting, with differing opinions on its benefits and potential performance enhancement. It is evident that the UFC Performance Institute plays a crucial role in providing scientific guidance, personalized nutrition plans, and approved supplements to assist fighters in managing their weight effectively.

Athletes, like Sean Brady, must be cautious about the supplements they take due to potential doping violations. Third-party testing is crucial for ensuring the safety and legality of supplements. Sean mentions the use of Allmax products, which are third-party tested. However, he acknowledges that not all supplements from the company are third-party tested. He also highlights the importance of being aware of individual state regulations regarding peptides, as testing positive in a particular state can lead to consequences, even if it's allowed in other states. It's clear that athletes should prioritize using supplements that have undergone third-party testing to avoid any potential risks or violations. Additionally, Sean and Joe Rogan discuss their experiences with training during COVID-19, emphasizing the challenges and uncertainties faced by athletes during this time. Overall, it's crucial for athletes to navigate these complexities and prioritize their health and compliance with regulations.

The discussion highlights the frustration and skepticism towards the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Joe Rogan and Sean Brady express their disbelief in the scientific basis of certain measures, such as mask mandates, and question the labeling and treatment of COVID-19 compared to other illnesses. They also point out the alarming trend of social media backlash and cancel culture for expressing different opinions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and not simply complying without questioning. It sheds light on the impact of fear and how it can influence people's decision-making. Overall, the takeaway underscores the need for open dialogue, rationality, and individual choice in navigating through complex and divisive issues.

Joe Rogan initially had no hesitation about getting vaccinated, but due to logistical issues, he wasn't able to get vaccinated and ended up witnessing negative reactions and complications in people he knew. This made him start questioning the vaccine and listening to doctors who spoke out against it. He interviewed a doctor who developed the mRNA vaccine technology and had severe reactions to the vaccine himself. These experiences, along with the fact that healthcare workers with natural immunity were being made it difficult for them to do their jobs, led Rogan to believe in the effectiveness of natural immunity. Furthermore, he highlights the risks of grappling matches and the potential life-long damage that can be caused, as seen in a video where an opponent's knee was destroyed.

Injuries can have a significant impact on a fighter's performance. The conversation between Sean Brady and Joe Rogan highlights the gruesome injuries that can occur in grappling matches and the importance of tapping to prevent further damage. It is emphasized that tapping is crucial, even in seemingly less severe submissions like arm bars or shoulder locks, to avoid catastrophic injuries like broken bones or torn ligaments. The discussion also touches on the importance of assessing fighters at their peak performance to truly appreciate their skills and accomplishments, rather than judging them based on their decline or losses later in their careers. Overall, this conversation serves as a reminder of the physical risks involved in combat sports and the need for caution and respect for one's own well-being.

The type of equipment fighters use can greatly impact their performance and safety in training. Joe Rogan and Sean Brady discuss the importance of using high-quality gloves, headgear, and foam padding that have been designed by fighters for fighters. They emphasize the superiority of Trevor Whitman's MMA gloves, which encourage a closed fist and require effort to open, compared to the UFC gloves that tend to open the hand up more. They also highlight the benefits of using a small, thin headgear that provides just enough padding to prevent cuts without obstructing visibility or becoming a larger target. These discussions shed light on the need for thoughtful equipment choices to optimize training and minimize injuries in combat sports.

Taking care of your body and being smart about training is crucial for success in combat sports. Joe Rogan and Sean Brady discuss the importance of protecting yourself during training, such as wearing headgear and face shields to prevent injuries. They also highlight the significance of rest and recovery, especially as they age. Both agree that overtraining can have negative effects on performance and suggest taking breaks to let the body heal. They emphasize that more does not always mean better and that quality training sessions are more important than quantity. By finding a balance between challenging workouts and adequate rest, athletes can optimize their performance and avoid unnecessary injuries.

Sleep is crucial for recovery and optimal performance in sports. Sean Brady emphasizes the importance of getting enough sleep, aiming for a minimum of 7 to 9 hours each night. He considers 8 hours to be the sweet spot for feeling good. Joe Rogan even mentions how Tito Ortiz used to sleep 12 hours a night. Despite the lack of a standardized protocol in the sport of UFC, the significance of sleep remains consistent. While some fighters may naturally excel without paying much attention to their nutrition and recovery, Brady emphasizes the need for proper rest to allow the body to recover and perform at its best. Regardless of individual training methods and coaches, quality sleep acts as a superpower for athletes.

Perseverance and the ability to bounce back from defeat can lead to personal growth and improvement. Sean Brady's loss in his 15th fight was a challenging experience, but it became a turning point for him. He started working with mental performance coaches and transformed into a different person. Losing his undefeated record allowed him to let go of the pressure and expectations that came with it. He realized that the fear of losing was holding him back in his fights. This experience taught him the importance of mental strength and resilience. Sometimes, facing defeat can be a valuable lesson and an opportunity for self-improvement and future success.

The pressure to maintain an undefeated record can be overwhelming, but it's important to let go of that mindset. Losing a single fight doesn't mean the end of everything. Fighters like John Jones have proved that taking a loss doesn't define their careers. Even the best fighters in the world experience losses. It's a 50% chance of winning or losing in any fight. The focus should be on continuous growth and improvement, rather than being fixated on an undefeated record. The hate that some fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov receive is unwarranted, as they work hard and deserve recognition. The size and weight of fighters in the welterweight division have dramatically increased over the years, making it a tough competition.

Fighters in mixed martial arts (MMA) often face significant challenges with their weight and diet, leading to potential eating disorders. The conversation between Sean Brady and Joe Rogan highlights the intense physical demands of the sport and the toll it can take on a fighter's body. They discuss how quickly fighters can gain and lose weight, and the impact it has on their performance and overall well-being. Additionally, they touch upon the career of Tony Ferguson, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to retire and the potential risks of prolonging a career past its prime. This conversation sheds light on the physical and mental struggles that MMA fighters face and the need for proper support and optimal training methods to ensure their long-term health and success.

Taking care of nutrition, physical health, and constantly improving skills are crucial for success in MMA and jiu-jitsu. The conversation highlights the importance of not only training hard but also ensuring that every aspect of one's health is optimized, including regular blood work and hormone testing. The conversation also mentions the dedication and discipline of top athletes like Gordon Ryan and Georges St-Pierre, who train year-round, study tape, and constantly work on their techniques. Additionally, the discussion emphasizes the role of a knowledgeable coach and being in the right training environment to enhance growth and development. Overall, the key takeaway is that a comprehensive approach to training and health is essential for aspiring fighters and competitors.

The physical toll of fighting is significant and long-lasting. Sean Brady and Joe Rogan discussed the brutal nature of MMA fights and the aftermath fighters face. They emphasized the importance of recovery and mentioned methods like hyperbaric chamber therapy, stem cells, and peptides that can aid in healing. However, they expressed frustration that some of these therapies are currently prohibited in the sport due to performance-enhancing claims. They argued that since injuries are unavoidable in a sport where athletes train to injure each other, these recovery methods should be allowed and recognized by athletic commissions. Additionally, they mentioned their relief that the strict drug testing policies enforced by USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) are no longer as intrusive.

Drug testing in professional sports can be a time-consuming and meticulous process. Athletes like Sean Brady have to undergo blood and urine tests during scheduled visits, which can take up to 40 minutes. They have to provide details about their supplements and medications each time, and a test administrator even watches them urinate to ensure the sample's integrity. While there are efforts to catch cheaters, there are concerns about potential loopholes in the system. Some athletes may have the means to exploit these loopholes, such as using oral testosterone or finding ways to mask performance-enhancing substances. The documentary about TJ Dillashaw highlights the extreme measures some fighters take during weight cuts, which can have detrimental effects on their health. Overall, drug testing and weight cutting processes in sports require constant vigilance and improvement.

Injuries in combat sports, particularly to the shoulders, knees, and neck, can have long-lasting consequences for athletes. The conversation highlights the unfortunate cases of fighters like TJ Dillashaw and Yuri Alcantara, who faced significant challenges due to shoulder injuries. It emphasizes the importance of not pushing through serious injuries, as seen in instances where fighters attempted to continue despite shoulder dislocations. Furthermore, the discussion touches on how certain surgeries, such as those on the back and neck, can potentially end an athlete's career. However, there are remarkable exceptions like Aljamain Sterling and Chris Weidman, who were able to make successful comebacks after undergoing major surgeries. Overall, the key takeaway is that injuries should be taken seriously to avoid long-term consequences in combat sports.

Professional fighters like Sean Brady understand the inherent dangers of their sport. They have witnessed and experienced the severe injuries that can occur, such as broken femurs and blown-out knees. Due to the risks already present in their line of work, many fighters choose not to engage in other high-risk activities like riding motorcycles or participating in firework fights. Sean Strickland, for example, pushes the limits by jumping motorcycles in the desert and engaging in extreme activities outside of the octagon. However, fighters like Brady prioritize their safety and understand that their dangerous profession requires them to be cautious and avoid additional risks that could jeopardize their careers and well-being.

Defense is a crucial but often underappreciated aspect of fighting. Sean Brady and Joe Rogan discuss how Israel Adesanya's defensive skills played a significant role in his fights. Adesanya's ability to evade strikes, particularly with his unique Philly shell technique and well-timed jabs, impressed both Brady and Rogan. They also highlight Adesanya's intelligence in seeking out training with top coaches and fighters like Jocko and Bahada. On the other hand, they note that fighters like Khamzat Chimaev and Bo Nickel, who possess strong wrestling and grappling skills in the less-stacked 185 weight class, have the potential to excel. Ultimately, this conversation reminds us that defense, strategy, and adaptability are key components of fighting success.

In boxing, there are multiple sanctioning bodies and various belts to contend for, making it difficult to determine who the true champion is. Unlike in MMA, where the goal is typically to become a UFC champion, in boxing, fighters have to navigate through different organizations and divisions to establish their credentials. This fragmented system often leads to confusion and diminishes the clarity of who holds the top position in each weight class. Additionally, the pursuit of big-money fights and the desire to build a solid resume are important factors in a boxer's career progression. It's crucial for young fighters to take their time, gain experience, and strategize their path to the top instead of rushing towards recognition.

Doing what you love and finding joy in your daily activities is the key to a successful life. Sean Brady expresses his passion for fighting and how he would continue to do it even if he had all the money in the world. He finds fulfillment in training and competing, emphasizing the importance of doing what brings you happiness. Additionally, he highlights the benefits of being part of a smaller gym where he receives personalized attention and guidance from his coaches. This allows him to focus and improve his skills effectively. Lastly, he discusses the significance of being present and mentally focused during fights, acknowledging the impact it has on decision-making and overall performance. Working with a mental trainer has helped him overcome distractions and remain fully present in his fights.

Being present in the moment is crucial, not just in fighting but in life. Sean Brady learned this lesson after experiencing a loss and realizing that he was not fully immersed in the present during his fights. He discovered the importance of letting go of worries about the future or dwelling on past failures. Instead, he practices techniques like affirmations and visualization to stay focused and reset his mindset when needed. Through these practices, he learned that mental preparation is just as important as physical training. Visualizing both positive and negative scenarios helps him anticipate challenges and perform better in the ring. This lesson applies to anyone aiming for success in any field, highlighting the power of being fully engaged in the present moment.

Mental focus and preparation are crucial in any endeavor, especially in high-pressure situations like fighting. Sean Brady emphasizes the importance of visualizing both success and adversity, training his mind to stay present and focused. He highlights the need to carve pathways in the mind for different scenarios, ensuring that he has strategies in place for any situation that arises. Additionally, Brady emphasizes the importance of being in the moment and eliminating distractions, whether it's during a fight or in everyday life. Finally, he emphasizes the significance of having the right mindset, acknowledging that success requires discipline, adjustments, and a willingness to learn from experiences.

Sean Brady values his slow and strategic approach to grappling in the octagon. He describes how he maps out his moves and maneuvers to control his opponents, wearing them down slowly and draining their energy. He takes pride in the feeling of dominating his opponents and being able to sense their energy being zapped when he's on top of them. While there are talks about his upcoming fights and potential matchups, Brady emphasizes his desire to face Colby, believing that he should have to fight younger fighters ranked below him before getting another title shot. He also mentions his interest in fighting Wonder Boy, as they are both highly skilled grapplers. Overall, Brady is focused on making careful decisions about his next fights and ensuring that his hand fully recovers before jumping back into training camp.