Podcasts > The Joe Rogan Experience > Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

By Joe Rogan

In this Fight Companion episode for an MMA event, Joe Rogan and guests analyze fighters' striking, grappling, and overall skills. They highlight successful techniques, effective training methods like drilling, and the importance of mental strength in competition. The panel also touches on the modern MMA landscape, from talented UFC prospects to novel fighting formats like bare-knuckle boxing.

Rogan and company delve into the technical details of submissions, leg locks, and grappling strategy while addressing the psychological side of fighting. They discuss the mental toughness required to maintain focus, manage high-pressure situations, and bounce back from losses. The episode provides insights into MMA's diverse disciplines and the larger forces shaping the sport.

Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Mar 23, 2025 episode of the The Joe Rogan Experience

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Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

1-Page Summary

Mma Fighter Matchups and Analysis

Joe Rogan and his guests analyze fighters' striking, grappling, and skills. Rogan praises Jai Herbert's kicks, Gunnar Nelson's grappling prowess, and Kevin Holland's resistance to Nelson's grappling, though noting Holland may struggle against elite grapplers. Rogan applauds Blachowicz's low kicks and Onkaliyev's toughness.

The panel highlights the importance of technique and mental preparation. Rogan emphasizes controlling strength and technique, as well as understanding scoring. The modern UFC surprises Rogan and Brendan Schaub with its high talent level, leaving no "tune-up" fights.

Techniques, Skills, and Training Methods of MMA Fighters

Experts assess submission attempts, leg locks, and grappling's crucial role. Eddie Bravo discusses advanced moves like the dead orchard armbar. Rogan praises Paul Craig's guard and Gordon Ryan advises the honey hole position for leg locks.

Drilling escapes and defenses is emphasized, including body positioning and control strategies. Ryan notes drilling's confidence boost. The panel stresses well-rounded skills, combining leg locks, and passing for strategic impact. Rogan and guests advocate for physical strength balanced with grappling skills.

The Mental and Psychological Aspects of MMA Competition

Rogan highlights fighters' shifting mindsets after losses or being "rocked," underscoring focus maintenance. Mental coaching develops unshakable skills belief, per Kane's work with Shawn. Ryan links repeated drilling success to mental fortitude in extended fights.

After success, fighters may struggle mentally, per Rogan. He suggests seeking coaching after a humbling loss to rebuild confidence.

The Changing Landscape of MMA Promotions and Organizations

Rogan and guests discuss the modern UFC's deep talent pool from Dana White's Contender Series, eliminating "tune-up" fights for returning veterans like Arlovski. The influx of skilled prospects makes matchmaking tougher.

Bare-knuckle fighting offers potential interest but injury risks. Celebs like McGregor getting involved could raise its profile. Rogan mentions novel concepts like fighting on skates.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Dana White's Contender Series is an MMA promotion where fighters compete to earn a contract with the UFC. It serves as a platform for up-and-coming talent to showcase their skills to Dana White and potentially secure a spot in the UFC roster. The series is separate from the UFC but provides a pathway for fighters to eventually compete in the UFC. The events are typically held in Las Vegas and are now streamed on ESPN+.
  • Arlovski is a reference to Andrei Arlovski, a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in the UFC. He is a former UFC Heavyweight Champion and a well-known veteran in the sport.
  • Bare-knuckle fighting is a form of combat sport where fighters engage in full-contact matches without wearing any hand protection like gloves. It has historical roots dating back to 17th-century England and follows specific rules differentiating it from street fighting. In recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in bare-knuckle fighting with various promotions organizing events in both England and the United States.
  • "Tune-up" fights are matches in combat sports meant to help a fighter regain confidence or test their skills against a less challenging opponent before facing tougher competition. These fights are typically against opponents perceived to be easier to defeat, allowing the fighter to work on specific techniques or strategies without as much risk. The term "tune-up" implies that the fight serves as a preparation or warm-up for more significant bouts in the future.
  • Mental coaching for unshakable skills belief involves training fighters to develop unwavering confidence in their abilities. This coaching focuses on building a strong mindset that can withstand challenges and setbacks during competition. It aims to help fighters maintain belief in their skills even in difficult situations, ultimately enhancing their performance and resilience in the face of adversity. Mental coaching can play a crucial role in shaping a fighter's mental fortitude and overall success in MMA.

Counterarguments

  • While Rogan praises Jai Herbert's kicks and Gunnar Nelson's grappling, it's important to note that performance in MMA can be inconsistent and fighters must continuously evolve to stay competitive.
  • Kevin Holland's resistance to grappling is commendable, but the ability to adapt to different fighting styles is crucial for long-term success in MMA.
  • The emphasis on technique and mental preparation is key, but physical attributes like reach, speed, and natural power can also significantly influence a fight's outcome.
  • Understanding scoring is important, but judges' subjective interpretations can sometimes lead to controversial decisions, suggesting a need for clearer scoring criteria or education.
  • The lack of "tune-up" fights in the UFC could be seen as a double-edged sword, potentially leading to more exciting matchups but also risking fighters' health and longevity in the sport.
  • Advanced grappling moves and positions are valuable, but they must be integrated into a comprehensive game plan that includes striking and conditioning.
  • Drilling for confidence is beneficial, but over-reliance on specific techniques can be detrimental if opponents are able to exploit predictable patterns.
  • The importance of well-rounded skills is highlighted, but specialists in certain disciplines can still find success by maximizing their strengths and minimizing their weaknesses.
  • The discussion on mental fortitude is crucial, but individual psychological differences mean that what works for one fighter in terms of mental preparation may not work for another.
  • The influx of skilled prospects in the UFC is exciting, but it may also lead to a saturation of talent, making it harder for fighters to stand out and for fans to follow their careers.
  • Bare-knuckle fighting's potential interest is noted, but its long-term viability and acceptance by mainstream audiences and regulators remain uncertain.
  • The involvement of celebrities like McGregor in bare-knuckle fighting could raise its profile, but it might also overshadow the sport's core athletes and their achievements.
  • Novel concepts like fighting on skates are mentioned, but the practicality and safety of such ideas would need thorough evaluation before being considered seriously.

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Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

Mma Fighter Matchups and Analysis

Joe Rogan and his guests provide a detailed analysis of various MMA fighters' performances, delving into their skills, preparation, and the mental aspects of fighting.

Experts Critique Combatants' Performance

Rogan Analyzes Fighters' Striking, Grappling, and Skills: Blachowicz, Nelson, Holland, and Brady

Rogan describes Jai Herbert as having great striking and very good kicks, particularly his ability to deliver a vicious head kick. He also discusses John's meticulous preparation for fighting Stipe Miocic and notes Tom Aspinall's speed and ability as a heavyweight. Rogan comments on Gunnar Nelson's strong grappling skills, mentioning that when he gets an opponent scrambling on the ground, they're in trouble. He observes Kevin Holland's resistance to Nelson's grappling, pointing out the strain on Kevin's shoulder. During a match, Rogan praises Nelson's maneuvering but notes a lost position due to slipperiness.

For the fight under discussion, Rogan highlights moments such as a knee to the body and significant punches. He remarks on how Holland, despite being wobbly after being hit, can become a champion if he stays focused and competes in the 70 weight class. Regarding Kevin Holland’s grappling ability, Rogan notes that while Holland has skills, he may struggle against higher-caliber grapplers.

Myles E. Johnson confirms Henderson's ability but suggests that he can't "grapple with them," referring to top-level fighters. Concerning Blachowicz, Rogan notes his hard low kick and significant power. He also remarks on Onkaliyev's resilience and toughness.

Guests Discuss Importance of Strength, Technique, and Mental Preparation for Elite Mma

In their analysis, Rogan and his guests address the importance of strength and technique in MMA fighting. They discuss various aspects of fighting strategy and the mental preparation required for elite competition. Rogan emphasizes the need for fighters to effectively manage their strength and technique to maintain control during a fight. He also highlights the mental aspect of fighting, such as understanding fight scoring and dealing with the unpredictability of judging.

Despite not being explicitly discussed in the provided content, the conversations convey that technique often outweighs brute strength and tha ...

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Mma Fighter Matchups and Analysis

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tom Aspinall is a British heavyweight mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC. He is known for his speed and technical abilities in the heavyweight division. Aspinall has gained attention for his impressive performances and potential as a rising star in the UFC's heavyweight roster.
  • Gunnar Nelson is known for his high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills, utilizing a style that focuses on fluid transitions between positions and submissions. His grappling technique often involves seeking opportunities to secure dominant positions on the ground, where he can apply his submission expertise effectively. Nelson's style emphasizes control and precision, aiming to capitalize on his opponent's mistakes to secure a submission victory.
  • Kevin Holland, a mixed martial artist, has shown skills in striking but has faced challenges in grappling against high-caliber opponents. Despite possessing grappling abilities, Holland has encountered difficulties when matched against elite grapplers in the sport. His performance in grappling situations has been scrutinized, with observations made about his struggles against opponents with superior grappling techniques.
  • In MMA, "tune-up" fights are matches arranged for experienced fighters to face less challenging opponents, allowing them to regain confidence or test their skills before facing tougher competition. These fights are typically seen as opportunities for fighters to showcase their abilities without the intense pressure of facing top-tier opponents. "Tune-up" ...

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Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

Techniques, Skills, and Training Methods of MMA Fighters

A detailed analysis of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) techniques and training approaches was discussed by renowned experts in the field, emphasizing the importance of grappling skills, diversified training, and strategic execution in the sport.

Experts Analyze Martial Arts Techniques In MMA

Guests Assess Leg Locks, Arm Locks, and Submissions in MMA Competition

The guests review various submission attempts and the crucial role of grappling technique. They scrutinize a heel hook and knee bar combination, with specific emphasis on the mistake of turning away from the opponent. Analysis of an ineffective heel lock that Tom Aspinall suffered is also mentioned, highlighting the nuances of grappling techniques in MMA.

Eddie Bravo discusses advanced moves like the dead orchard technique and its variant, the Mexican dead orchard, which involves the invisible collar to muddy waters. The effectiveness of the dead orchard as a prime armbar from guard is discussed, with Bravo citing Nathan Orchard and Brian Debs as frequent users and mentioning a student with a high success rate in competition.

Paul Craig's guard technique is applauded by Rogan, who praises his ability to execute armbars and triangles against world champions. Gordon Ryan stresses the best position for leg locks in MMA, known as the 'honey hole,' or technically, cross ashi garami or inside Senkaku. Bravo adds that the Z-Lock is effective, challenging opponents to strike back properly, and he evaluates the 50-50 position, admitting it allows for less powerful strikes.

Outside Ashigurami, Ryan explains, makes it difficult for opponents to strike effectively. Bravo cites a UFC fight where a knee bar led to victory. He also discusses how reaping complicates an opponent's ability to land punches. Bravo and Rogan claim heel hooks are not common because many fighters aren't proficient in them. Bravo acknowledges Ryan Hall for his early and significant damage with leg locks. The outside ashi position, as per Bravo and Ryan, can be risky since it allows opponents to strike more freely.

Rogan and Guests Praise Fighters' Grappling Skills and Discuss Drilling's Importance in Training

During the play-by-play analysis, correct grips for successful submissions are focused on. Rogan and Bravo assess Gunnar Nelson's fighting skills while commenting live on his match with Kevin Hall. They discuss the critical nature of escapes, submission defenses, and the relevance of grappling exchanges during a match.

Gordon Ryan suggests first moving the opponent's feet off the cage before attempting submissions to gain a strategic advantage. Bravo and Ryan emphasize drilling for various leg locks, highlighting the strength and effectiveness of "double trouble" and outside heel hooks. They touch upon powerful ankle locks and praise the ‘Polish aoke’ for its strategic defense against stacking.

Joe Rogan and Gordon Ryan reflect on the use of groundwork during a fight, including effective body positioning, securing mounts, and control strategies. Bravo discusses the effectiveness of specific submission holds, suggesting arm triangles as potent offensive techniques.

Guests Emphasize Well-Rounded Skills, Efficiency, and Strategy for MMA Success

Ryan and Rogan note the level of grappling dominance seen in certain matches. R ...

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Techniques, Skills, and Training Methods of MMA Fighters

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Dead Orchard technique in MMA is an advanced submission move that involves trapping the opponent's arm while setting up for an armbar from the guard position. The Mexican Dead Orchard is a variation of this technique that incorporates a specific grip known as the invisible collar to enhance control and leverage during the submission attempt. These techniques are named after Nathan Orchard, a practitioner known for popularizing and utilizing them effectively in MMA competitions. Eddie Bravo, a prominent figure in the MMA community, has discussed and demonstrated the effectiveness of these techniques in various grappling scenarios.
  • The 'honey hole' position in MMA, also known as cross ashi garami or inside Senkaku, is a leg entanglement technique used primarily for controlling and attacking an opponent's legs. It is a powerful position for setting up various leg locks and submissions, providing the practitioner with significant control over their opponent's movements and options. The 'honey hole' allows for effective attacks on the opponent's legs while minimizing the risk of counterattacks, making it a strategic and high-percentage position in grappling exchanges.
  • The Z-Lock is a leg lock submission technique in grappling where the attacker entangles the opponent's leg in a specific manner to apply pressure on the knee joint. It is a nuanced and effective submission hold that can be challenging for opponents to defend against. The 50-50 position in grappling is a neutral position where both fighters have one leg inside the other's legs, creating a balanced scenario where each can attack and defend simultaneously. It is a strategic position that requires skill and technique to capitalize on offensive opportunities while avoiding being submitted.
  • Outside Ashigurami is a grappling position in MMA where one fighter controls the opponent's leg from the outside, making it challenging for the opponent to strike effectively. This position can limit the opponent's ability to generate power in their strikes due to the control exerted on their leg. It is a strategic technique used to neutralize an opponent's striking capabilities and create opportunities for the fighter employing the position. Outside Ashigurami is often utilized to maintain control and set up further grappling or ...

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Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

The Mental and Psychological Aspects of MMA Competition

Joe Rogan discusses the profound impact of mental coaching, the psychological underpinnings of fighting success, and how a fighter's mindset can shift under various circumstances within the intensity of MMA competition.

Rogan and Guests Discuss Mental Coaching's Role in MMA

Fighters' Mindset Shift After Loss and Focus Importance

Rogan mentions the significance a fighter’s mindset has in the ring, especially after they have been "rocked" by a hit, as focus or strategy may need to shift. Brendan Schaub's discussion with Rogan implies that continuous improvement and maintenance of mental sharpness are critical, even when faced with sleep deprivation or adverse conditions. Rogan also highlights Kevin Holland's hunger and desire to become a champion, displaying how mindset and focus are pivotal in competition.

Training Builds Unshakable Belief in Skills, Giving Fighters an Edge

Rogan has lauded the role of mental coaching in developing confidence among fighters, revealing practices that build a framework for them to rely on during difficult moments in a fight. He cited Brian Kane as Shawn's mental coach, who specializes in peak performance training, which includes developing custom affirmations and mind control techniques. These techniques aid in building an unshakable belief in a fighter’s abilities. Gordon Ryan discusses with Rogan how repeated success in practice contributes to mental strength, giving him an advantage in no time limit fights where psychological endurance is key. Ryan emphasizes that technical efficiency, paired with mental toughness, forces opponents to exert more effort and tire more quickly.

Rogan and Guests Discuss Fighters' Ment ...

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The Mental and Psychological Aspects of MMA Competition

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While mental coaching can be beneficial, it is not the only factor in a fighter's success; physical conditioning, technical skill, and strategy are also critical components.
  • A shift in mindset after a loss may not always be necessary; some fighters may benefit from maintaining their existing mindset and simply refining their approach or technique.
  • The importance of mental sharpness could be overstated for some fighters who rely more on instinct and natural ability rather than strategic thinking.
  • The desire to become a champion, as exemplified by Kevin Holland, is not unique to him and may not always correlate with success; other factors like opportunity and timing play significant roles.
  • Confidence and belief in one's skills are important, but overconfidence can lead to underestimating opponents and making critical mistakes.
  • Custom affirmations and mind control techniques may not work for every fighter; some may find these methods incompatible with their personal beliefs or ineffective.
  • The idea that repeated success in practice always translates to mental strength in competition can be challenged; practice environments often differ significantly from the pressures of actual competition.
  • Technical efficiency and mental toughness do not guarantee that an opponent will tire more quickly; opponents may have superior conditioning o ...

Actionables

  • You can create a personal mantra to reinforce self-belief during challenging tasks, similar to how fighters use affirmations. Write down a short, powerful statement that resonates with your goals and repeat it to yourself during moments of doubt or before undertaking a difficult task. For example, if you're nervous about public speaking, your mantra could be "I speak with confidence and clarity," which you'd repeat before stepping onto the stage.
  • Develop a routine to simulate high-pressure situations to improve your performance under stress. Start by identifying a skill or task you want to excel in, then create a practice scenario that mimics the stress of a real-life situation. For instance, if you're a musician, you could record yourself playing as if it's a live performance, or if you're preparing for an exam, take timed practice tests in an environment that resembles the test center.
  • Engage in reflective journaling after setbacks to shift your mindset and identify areas for improvement. Whenever you face a ...

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Fight Companion - March 22, 2025

The Changing Landscape of MMA Promotions and Organizations

Joe Rogan and his guests delve into the deep talent pool of modern MMA and discuss how this changes the competitive environment for fighters and promotions alike.

Rogan, Guests Discuss Challenges In Securing "Easy" Fights in Modern MMA

Influx of Skilled Prospects Through UFC's Contender Series

Joe Rogan says he watches Dana White's Contender Series because it showcases the best talent and motivation in combat sports, giving fighters a significant opportunity. The competitiveness of the series means fighters must go for broke, unlike on the Ultimate Fighter, where grappling can win you the show. Rogan mentions that a victory on the Contender Series can lead to a quick rise within the year, citing fighters like Sugar Sean O'Malley and Jamal Hill who emerged from the series.

Joe Rogan and guests acknowledge the influx of highly skilled contenders from the Contender Series making the UFC’s competitive landscape even denser, eliminating the chance for “easy” fights.

Guests Surprised by No "Tune-Up" Fights For Returning Veterans Due to Deep Talent Pool

Rogan notes the caliber of newcomers and the resulting difficulty veterans face in securing "tune-up" fights—less challenging matches designed to build momentum. For example, veterans like Andrei Arlovski are matched with young, talented fighters. Brendan Schaub and Rogan also reference the lack of "tune-up" fights for up-and-coming fighters, as seen with Jared Anderson, a young, undefeated heavyweight being advised against taking a fight he wasn’t ready for, and Bicoli, who fought Joseph Parker on extremely short notice.

The deep talent pool in MMA, particularly in the UFC, has made it so that "easy" fights or "tune-up" bouts for returning veterans are nearly non-existent, often pitting comeback fighters against high-ranked opponents right away.

Rogan and Guests Discuss Bare Knuckle Fighting Benefits, Drawbacks, and Combat Sports Innovation

The conversation shifts to the topic of bare-knuckle fighting. Eddie Bravo suggests that pure striking events or bare-knuc ...

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The Changing Landscape of MMA Promotions and Organizations

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Dana White's Contender Series is a platform created by UFC President Dana White to scout new talent for the UFC. It is a weekly competition where fighters compete for a chance to showcase their skills and potentially earn a contract with the UFC. The series aims to provide up-and-coming fighters with an opportunity to prove themselves and eventually compete at the highest level of mixed martial arts. The fighters participating in the Contender Series do not have existing contracts with the UFC.
  • The Ultimate Fighter is a reality TV series and MMA competition produced by the UFC. It features professional fighters living together, training, and competing for a contract with the UFC. The show has been instrumental in popularizing MMA and has produced many UFC fighters and champions.
  • "Tune-up" fights are matches in combat sports that are considered less challenging and are typically used to help fighters build momentum or make a comeback. These fights are meant to be easier compared to facing top-ranked opponents, allowing fighters to showcase their skills and potentially regain confidence before taking on tougher competition. In the context of MMA, "tune-up" fights have become scarce due to the deep talent pool, leading to returning veterans and up-and-coming fighters often being matched against formidable opponents right away. The term "tune-up" implies a preparatory or warm-up bout that serves as a stepping stone towards more significant challenges in a fighter's career.
  • Bare-knuckle fighting is a form of combat sport where fighters engage in full-contact matches without wearing any hand protection, such as gloves. It has historical roots dating back to 17th-century England and follows specific rules differentiating it from street fighting. In recent times, there ha ...

Counterarguments

  • The Contender Series may showcase talent, but it could also be argued that it places too much pressure on fighters to perform dramatically to secure contracts, potentially encouraging reckless behavior.
  • While the Contender Series can lead to a quick rise, it might also create unrealistic expectations for fighters who may need more time to develop before facing top-tier competition.
  • The lack of "tune-up" fights could be seen as a failure to properly manage fighters' careers, potentially leading to burnout or injury by pushing them too hard, too fast.
  • The deep talent pool in MMA might lead to more exciting matchups, but it could also result in less marketable fighters being overlooked despite their skill, as promotions focus on those who can draw bigger audiences.
  • Bare-knuckle fighting's increased realism is subjective and could be criticized for glorifying violence and potentially ...

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