JRE MMA Show #3 with Brendan Schaub

Episode Summary

Main Topics Discussed

• Discussion of upcoming UFC fights, primarily focusing on **UFC 218** and **UFC 220**.
• In-depth analysis and predictions for:

  • Justin Gaethje vs. Eddie Alvarez (UFC 218)
  • Francis Ngannou vs. Alistair Overeem (UFC 218)
  • Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Edson Barboza (UFC 219)
  • Max Holloway vs. Jose Aldo (UFC 218)

• The state of the **heavyweight division**, including potential title challengers, Stipe Miocic's contract situation, and Cain Velasquez's ongoing injuries.
• The significant impact of **USADA** (U.S. Anti-Doping Agency) on fighter physiques, performance, and overall strategy, often referred to as "the Golden Snitch."
• Debates on **fighter comparisons** across different eras and weight classes, particularly in the context of drug testing.
• The strategic implications of **cage size** (small vs. large) and how it favors different fighting styles.

Key Insights & Memorable Moments

• Justin Gaethje's "Will Game": Joe Rogan differentiates Gaethje's fighting style from merely "meathead," describing it as a "battle of wills" where Gaethje is confident in his ability to endure and break opponents. Brendan Schaub, however, expresses concern that this style might not succeed against the "upper echelon" of fighters.
• Ngannou's Power & Potential: Francis Ngannou's world record for the hardest punch is discussed, leading to speculation about his raw, natural power and how quickly he's risen in the sport despite a relatively short fighting career.
• Alistair Overeem's Vulnerability: Schaub highlights Overeem's extensive record of stoppage losses across MMA and kickboxing, particularly a cluster of brutal KOs in a short period, raising questions about his chin. Despite this, his high-level technical skills in the clinch are acknowledged as his "x-factor."
• Khabib's Weight Cutting Struggles: The hosts express significant concern over Khabib Nurmagomedov's recurring severe weight cutting issues, which have led to medical incidents, and hopefully note that Daniel Cormier mentioned Khabib is working with a new nutritionist and is lighter.
• USADA's Transformative Effect: The podcast frequently touches on how USADA has changed the sport, creating a clear distinction between the "pre-snitch" era (where chemical advantages were rampant) and the current landscape, which heavily influences fighter development and discussion of "all-time greats."
• Cage Size Dynamics: The hosts analyze how a smaller cage can dramatically alter fight outcomes, favoring brawlers and grapplers (like Khabib) while limiting the range and movement of technical strikers like Conor McGregor or Edson Barboza.

Notable Quotes or Revelations

• Brendan Schaub on Gaethje's style: "I just feel like at a certain level that standing bang Leonard Garcia type of style at the upper echelon can get you in trouble."
• Joe Rogan on Gaethje's intent: "I don't think that just in Gaethje really plays a meathead game. I think he plays a will game."
• Brendan Schaub's humorous take on Khabib's diet: "for tiramisu ruins up five I'm gonna bast I'm gonna freak the fuck."
• Joe Rogan on Ngannou's natural state: "Francis is as natural as fucking coconut water."
• Joe Rogan on the "pre-snitch" era: "before used to be who had the best cheater who had the best chemists who had the best doctors at the best doctor who had the best guy that could make you test positive or test clean rather after the weigh-in."
• Joe Rogan on small cage impact: "Small cage favors brawlers, Khabib would never lose."
• Brendan Schaub on Ngannou's terrifying presence: "Francis scares the fuck out of me when you watch him hit people it's boom oh Jesus he's just so big and so powerful and so undeniable when he comes moving in for the kill is undeniable."
• Joe Rogan describing current Alistair Overeem's physique: "he has almost a dad bod that works out on the weekend." (in contrast to his "Uber-reem" days)

Overall Themes

• The Evolving Nature of MMA: The conversation repeatedly highlights how rule changes (like USADA testing) and strategic shifts are constantly reshaping the sport, impacting fighter physiques, techniques, and the definition of greatness.
• Striking vs. Grappling Dynamics: A core theme is the eternal debate and analysis of how different fighting styles (pure strikers, brawlers, wrestlers, clinch fighters) match up against each other, with specific examples from the upcoming fight cards.
• Heavyweight Division's Unpredictability: The discussion emphasizes the unique challenges and exciting potential within the heavyweight division, characterized by powerful knockout artists, long-reigning champions, and the impact of injuries and contract disputes.
• Fighter Mentality and Physical Limits: The podcast delves into the psychological aspects of fighting, such as a fighter's "will" to win, alongside the physical tolls of intense weight cuts and the long-term effects of brutal knockouts.