JRE MMA Show #33 with Brendan Schaub

Episode Summary

Main Topics

This episode delves deeply into the upcoming UFC 226 fight card, offering detailed breakdowns and predictions for high-profile bouts like Stipe Miocic vs. Daniel Cormier, Max Holloway vs. Brian Ortega, and Francis Ngannou vs. Derrick Lewis. The hosts critically examine the evolving landscape of MMA, including controversies surrounding performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and USADA's testing protocols, as well as the financial struggles and changing business models of major promotions. Beyond combat sports, the conversation transitions into broader themes of personal discipline, training philosophies, and the unique challenges and mindsets required for success in demanding fields like professional comedy and martial arts.

Key Discussion Points

• UFC 226 Main Card Breakdown: Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub offer comprehensive analyses of the highly anticipated fights. For Daniel Cormier vs. Stipe Miocic, Joe favors DC, citing his superior wrestling and mental fortitude, despite Stipe's reach and striking. They predict Derrick Lewis might surprise Francis Ngannou with wrestling, rather than just striking, to counter Ngannou's power. Max Holloway vs. Brian Ortega is lauded as a potential classic, with praise for Holloway's "it is what it is" mentality and Ortega's exceptional, unconventional jiu-jitsu, honed under Rener Gracie from a humble background.
• The Complexities of USADA and PEDs: The discussion highlights the contentious nature of drug testing in MMA, particularly with fighters like Vitor Belfort, whose "super unleaded" physique on TRT was legally permitted for a time, contrasting with his later appearance. They touch on Jon Jones's minuscule positive test for turinabol, the concept of microdosing, and the argument that if all fighters used PEDs, the hierarchy might remain similar, but some bodies (like Vitor's) react uniquely. The hosts express frustration over USADA's handling of cases, citing Josh Barnett's year-long suspension later proven innocent without a public vindication, and Junior dos Santos being flagged for a diuretic, then cleared with little fanfare.
• Modern Training and Athletic Performance: Schaub discusses cutting-edge strength and conditioning methods, contrasting them with "bro science." He references GSP's water workouts, which are easy on joints but might reduce explosiveness if overused, and Ross Enamait's philosophy of constant, lower-intensity training to avoid soreness and aid recovery. The hosts note that high-level athletes like Michael Bisping and Georges St-Pierre focused on high-pace, sport-specific training. They also debunk the myth that weightlifting at a young age stunts growth, noting how gymnasts, though small, are incredibly strong.
• The Evolving Business of MMA: Joe and Brendan express concern over the UFC's declining pay-per-view numbers, attributing it to the increasing cost for fans who now need to subscribe to ESPN+, Fight Pass, and potentially DAZN for other promotions like Bellator. They discuss the prevalence of illegal streaming and suggest that a free, ad-supported model, similar to the NBA or NFL, might be necessary for the sport's growth. They also mention that major streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon have historically been uninterested in MMA, deeming its audience too small for their content strategy.
• Discipline and Drive in Comedy: Brendan shares his perspective on transferring an athlete's work ethic to stand-up comedy, emphasizing discipline as crucial for success, countering the common "self-sabotaging" or "effortless funny" tropes among some comedians. Joe reinforces this, noting Brendan's consistent hustle and positivity. They discuss the importance of drawing inspiration from successful peers, like The Rock and Kevin Hart, and the destructive nature of jealousy in any competitive field. Joe also shares the impactful "Good" motivational video by Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, advocating for a mindset that turns adversity into opportunity.

Notable Moments

• Surprising Animal Encounter: Joe recounts an anecdote about a man completely oblivious to a bear directly in his path in a Pasadena alley, captured on video, prompting a discussion about proper bear encounter etiquette and the terrifying Seattle mountain lion attack where an emaciated, 90-pound feline killed one cyclist and severely injured another despite efforts to use a bike as a shield.
• USADA's Flawed Vindication: The hosts delve into the case of Josh Barnett, who faced a year-long suspension due to a USADA error that was eventually corrected, but without the same public attention as his initial flagging. This resulted in significant lost income and career time for Barnett, highlighting the perceived unfairness in USADA's communication when mistakes are made.
• The Power of the "Good" Philosophy: Joe shares a powerful two-minute motivational video by former Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, which emphasizes responding to any negative situation with the word "Good," transforming setbacks into opportunities for growth and recalibration. This resonates deeply with Brendan, who admits to using similar self-talk during challenging moments.

Key Takeaways

The episode provides a rare, candid look into the inner workings and controversies of MMA, offering expert fight predictions for UFC 226 while challenging the sport's current business and regulatory models. Listeners gain insight into the ethical dilemmas of drug testing and the financial pressures facing both promotions and fans. Beyond the octagon, the conversation offers valuable lessons on leveraging discipline, maintaining a positive mindset, and fostering collective success in competitive environments, applicable to any career path.