Joe Rogan Experience #1917 - Fedor Gorst

Episode Summary

Main Topics

This episode delves into the unique journey of professional pool player Fedor Gorst, tracing his path from Russian Pyramid billiards to becoming a world-class nine-ball and ten-ball competitor. It explores the cultural differences in how pool is perceived and played in Russia, Europe, and the United States, highlighting the challenges and opportunities within the sport. The conversation also uncovers the hidden world of high-stakes pool gambling, including its inherent dangers and the extreme lengths players go to for an edge, while discussing the evolving landscape of professional pool and its future growth through modern media and tournament formats.

Key Discussion Points

• Fedor Gorst's Unique Background and Early Career: Fedor, at 22, recounts starting billiards at age six in Russia with the challenging "Russian Pyramid" game, played on a 12-foot table with tiny pockets. His coach advised a switch to standard pool at eight or nine due to his short stature and greater potential for international travel, a stark contrast to pool's "bar game" perception in the US. He detailed his early success, including reaching the last 12 at his first Derby City Classic at 16, a major "hustlers convention."
• The Unseen World of High-Stakes Pool Gambling: The discussion highlights the stark contrast between Europe's practice-focused pool culture and the US's action-heavy gambling scene. Fedor shared an anecdote of winning $51,000 in a single day playing "one pocket" against a weaker opponent he gave a significant spot to (10 to 5 balls). Rogan recounted stories of players using Adderall, cocaine (even as hand powder), and heroin (like the legendary "Water Dog") to maintain focus and endurance during multi-day, high-money matches, illustrating the dark side of this subculture.
• Challenges and Politics for Russian Athletes in Pool: Fedor openly discussed the ban on Russian athletes following the Ukraine crisis, which prevented him from competing in official tournaments for several months. He expressed frustration over his non-selection for the European Mosconi Cup team, believing it was 100% due to his nationality despite being a top-five player globally, underscoring the political implications affecting individual athletes.
• Advanced Pool Technique, Equipment, and Practice: The conversation delved into the minutiae of professional play, including different cues (Fedor prefers a light 18oz cue with a 12.5mm tip, having experimented with 11.5mm), the impact of high vs. low deflection shafts, and the importance of a structured pre-shot routine with a "backswing pause." Fedor detailed his rigorous practice schedule of 6-8 hours daily, focusing on specific drills for breaks, jumps, and kicks, and using video analysis to refine his stroke.
• The Evolving Landscape and Future of Professional Pool: Both Rogan and Gorst noted the sport's resurgence, particularly through Matchroom Pool and online streaming platforms like DAZN, and discussed ways to further popularize it, including Rogan's idea for YouTube commentary matches. They also explored the "shark-proof" nature of Filipino players, who develop exceptional focus amidst noisy, crowded, and humid conditions, often using large amounts of powder on slow, dirty tables, as exemplified by Efren Reyes's legendary play.

Notable Moments

• Interesting Story/Anecdote: After losing three small-stakes sets to a seemingly weaker opponent, Fedor Gorst was unexpectedly offered a full sponsorship by the same man, Mike Nikolai, who had recognized his talent despite the loss. This chance encounter profoundly changed Fedor's career trajectory.
• Surprising Fact/Revelation: The widespread use of performance-enhancing drugs like Adderall, cocaine, and even heroin among players in multi-day, high-stakes pool gambling events, enabling them to play continuously for 24-48 hours, highlighting a dangerous and often unseen aspect of the subculture.
• Memorable Exchange: Joe Rogan performs his spot-on, eccentric impression of legendary pool player Earl Strickland, which he admits Earl was initially upset about, believing Rogan was "picking on" him, despite Rogan's deep admiration for Earl's unique playing style and character.

Key Takeaways

This episode provides a rare and intimate look into the complex world of professional pool, from the disciplined training methods in places like Russia and Europe to the gritty, high-stakes gambling culture prevalent in the US. Listeners gain insight into the nuanced technical aspects of the game, such as cue preferences and pre-shot routines, and appreciate the mental fortitude required to succeed. The discussion reveals the unique challenges faced by international players, the sport's ongoing struggle for mainstream recognition, and the passionate dedication of those who pursue excellence in billiards despite the odds.