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    • Commentating on martial arts fights: A challenging responsibilityCommentating requires accuracy, entertainment, and respect. Staying spoiler-free adds to the challenge, especially with instant access to information.

      Being a commentator for martial arts fights is a challenging job with a great deal of responsibility. The commentator must entertain the audience, represent what they're seeing accurately, and treat the event with respect. The commentator also has to avoid spoilers and stay away from the news or social media to fully enjoy the fight for the first time. The commentator shared that old fights are harder to comment on because they already know what's happening and have to act as if they don't. The commentator also mentioned that in the past, they had to wait for days to watch the fights due to time differences or delays, making it harder to avoid spoilers. Today, with instant access to information, it's even more challenging to stay spoiler-free. Despite the challenges, the commentator finds it rewarding to be a part of the martial arts community and to share their enthusiasm and knowledge with the audience.

    • The joy and intensity of combat sportsCombat sports bring joy and intensity through fierce competition and damaging strikes like elbows and knees. Fighters like Marat Balayev and Diego Sanchez embody this spirit, while John Jones and Tito Ortiz demonstrate the effectiveness of these strikes. The sport's variety in fighting styles keeps it exciting and evolving.

      The spirit of intense competition and the joy of battle are enduring aspects of combat sports, whether it be in the context of mixed martial arts or bare knuckle fighting. Fighters like Marat Balayev and Diego Sanchez embody this "battle joy," pushing through adversity and engaging with their opponents in a fearless and ferocious manner. Despite the risks involved, these athletes find happiness and fulfillment in the heat of competition. Moreover, while the rules and techniques may evolve, the most damaging strikes in martial arts remain the elbows and knees. These joint strikes can inflict significant harm, and fighters like John Jones and Tito Ortiz have demonstrated their effectiveness throughout the years. Additionally, combat sports continue to showcase a diverse range of fighting styles, from the wrestling-heavy approach of Ben Askren to the technical striking of Israel Adesanya. This variety keeps the sport exciting and constantly evolving, as fighters continue to challenge each other and defy expectations.

    • Russian MMA Fighter Garfield's Innovative Scarf Choke TechniqueGarfield's scarf choke technique, involving a tight lace around the opponent's collar, has led to several successful knockouts. Despite controversy over opponent's consciousness, referees assumed the worst based on visible signs.

      Garfield, a Russian MMA fighter, is known for his unique and effective use of scarf chokes. This technique involves lacing up the opponent's scarf or gi collar extremely tight, cutting off blood flow to the brain and rendering them unconscious. Garfield has used this move successfully on several occasions, including against Dean Lister and Crocop. During a recent fight, there was controversy over whether or not his opponent was unconscious when Garfield released the hold. Despite the debate, referees and commentators assumed the worst based on the visible signs of unconsciousness, such as a limp arm. Garfield's use of scarf chokes demonstrates his innovative approach to grappling and his ability to execute unconventional techniques effectively.

    • The Executioner: A Dangerous Rear-Naked Choke in BJJThe Executioner, a rear-naked choke from the front, can cause serious harm such as nerve damage or spine injury if not stopped in time by a referee.

      The executioner is a dangerous submission hold in martial arts, specifically in the context of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This hold, also known as a rear-naked guillotine from the back, involves wrapping one's arm around the front of an opponent's neck instead of the traditional method from behind. The pressure applied to the neck can be immense, potentially causing serious damage such as nerve damage or bending the spine. During a conversation about a past fight, the speaker expressed his concern about a referee's decision not to stop a fight involving this technique due to the potential harm it could cause. The executioner is a move that has been performed in various martial arts circles, but its use can result in a debilitating effect on the opponent, leaving them unable to move or in extreme discomfort.

    • Caution with Submissions: Personal Stories of InjuriesApproach submissions with care, referees play a crucial role in ensuring athlete safety, and personal experiences highlight potential severe consequences.

      Certain submissions, particularly neck chokes, can have severe consequences and should be approached with caution. The speaker shared personal experiences of individuals who have been paralyzed or seriously injured from such techniques. He also criticized those who sensationalize these techniques without considering the potential harm. The speaker emphasized the importance of referees making informed decisions regarding the safety of athletes, as they are putting their bodies on the line to pursue their dreams. The speaker acknowledged the complexity of the situation and the need for careful evaluation of threats and potential damages.

    • Stories of a MMA Referee's Exciting CareerA referee's role is crucial in ensuring fair fights and allowing athletes to perform at their best, even as they age, but the sport's health risks and potential for performance-enhancing substances remain concerns.

      Being a mixed martial arts referee requires a high level of seriousness and dedication, as every interaction and observation can potentially impact the outcome of a fight. The speaker shared stories of Carl's impressive grappling skills and explosiveness, as well as memorable moments from past fights. He emphasized the excitement that comes with watching athletes perform and the importance of allowing them to do so, even if it means revisiting previous matches. The discussion also touched on the reality of aging in the sport and the need for fighters to continually adapt and find new ways to compete at a high level. Unfortunately, the conversation was tainted by the news of T.J. Dilishott testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance, which is a serious issue that can have serious health consequences.

    • Discussion on Performance-enhancing drugs in MMA and other sportsThe UFC's testing program addresses the use of performance-enhancing drugs, but questions arise about testing older samples and fairness.

      Performance-enhancing drugs have been a significant issue in mixed martial arts and other professional sports, leading the UFC to institute a testing program. Athletes have pushed the limits with various substances, such as EPO, leading to health risks and potential unfair advantages. The discussion raises questions about the ethical and practical implications of testing older samples, which could potentially change the results of past fights. While some argue for transparency and testing all past fights, others question the feasibility and fairness of such an endeavor. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the importance of addressing performance-enhancing drugs in sports and the ongoing efforts to ensure a level playing field.

    • MMA's Significant Role of USADA in Ensuring Fair CompetitionIn MMA, USADA plays a crucial role with the power to test athletes at any time, ensuring fair competition through advanced substance detection methods.

      Unlike other sports where the athletic commission plays a minor role, in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), the government body, USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency), plays a significant role. They have the power to test athletes at any time, even disrupting their training camps, which can impact their performance. The testing is crucial as substances like EPO, which were previously undetectable, now have advanced detection methods. These substances provide anabolic advantages and recuperative powers, making it essential for fair competition. Despite the inconvenience, strict testing is necessary to maintain the integrity of the sport.

    • PED use in sports raises complex questionsThe use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports tarnishes athletes' legacies and raises ethical questions about testing and punishment.

      The use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in sports, specifically in the case of TJ Dillashaw, raises complex questions about the validity of past achievements and the ethical implications of testing and punishment. The discovery of TJ's positive test for EPO in a previous fight has tarnished his legacy as a two-time bantamweight champion and raised questions about the benefits and fairness of using such substances. The history of testing and sample retention adds another layer of complexity, as new testing methods may reveal more positive results from the past. The use of PEDs also raises questions about the motivation and dedication of athletes, as they seek an extra edge in their performance. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a level playing field in sports and the ongoing debate about the role of science and technology in enhancing human abilities.

    • The Pursuit of Performance EnhancementThe drive for performance enhancement continues, with some individuals and organizations pushing ethical boundaries. New methods and substances are constantly being developed, and the line between legal and illegal remains blurred.

      The world of performance enhancement is vast and complex, with many individuals and organizations pushing the boundaries of what is legal and ethical. From the infamous BALCO scandal involving athletes using undetectable steroids to the Russian state-sponsored doping program at the Sochi Olympics, the drive for an edge continues. Thousands of people are constantly working on developing new methods and substances, some of which may slip past testing regulations. The line between legal and illegal is blurred, and the question of what should be allowed remains debated. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal ethics and pride for some, while others will seek any advantage they can find.

    • Rules around performance enhancing substances and actions in sportsWhile some substances and actions are allowed, others are banned based on perceived safety risks. Application of rules can be inconsistent, and entertainment value often outweighs safety concerns.

      While some performance-enhancing substances and actions are allowed in certain sports, others are deemed dangerous and therefore banned. The line between what is considered safe and what is not seems to be subjective and can change over time. For instance, the use of artificial supplements or vitamins is generally allowed, but some substances like EPO are not. Similarly, certain actions, such as jumping on the cage or doing flips, are considered unsafe and are prohibited. However, the application of these rules can be inconsistent, and some questionable practices, such as fighters celebrating or even killing a doctor with a backflip, are tolerated. Ultimately, the safety concerns raised by these practices seem to be outweighed by the entertainment value they provide to audiences.

    • Encountering a Dolphin: Respecting Nature's PowerRespecting nature and its inhabitants, especially in their natural habitats, is crucial. Fear should not prevent us from enjoying the beauty of the natural world and engaging in activities like surfing and paddle boarding.

      Respecting nature and its inhabitants, no matter how large or seemingly threatening, is crucial. The speaker shares an experience of encountering a dolphin while paddle boarding and initially fears for his safety. However, he ultimately decides against harming the dolphin and instead gives it space. This incident highlights the importance of acknowledging the power and autonomy of animals in their natural habitats. Additionally, the conversation touches on the speaker's personal experiences with water sports, specifically surfing and paddle boarding. He expresses his admiration for those who can surf and his desire to learn, reflecting the allure and respect many people have for this activity. The discussion also sheds light on the contrast between the vast number of people living in coastal areas and the relatively small number who make use of the beach and engage in water sports, emphasizing the importance of making the most of opportunities to connect with nature. Lastly, the conversation briefly touches on the fear of sharks and the speaker's personal journey to overcome this fear by learning to surf. This aspect of the conversation underscores the idea that facing fears and stepping out of one's comfort zone can lead to growth and new experiences.

    • Stay Calm Around Dangerous WildlifeAvoid provoking predatory instincts by staying calm and maintaining a safe distance from sharks and other dangerous wildlife.

      Interacting with dangerous wildlife requires a calm and collected attitude to avoid provoking their predatory instincts. Sharks, for instance, can sense fear and may attack if they perceive vulnerability. Furthermore, attempting to interact with sharks in an unsafe manner, such as trying to feed them with your hands, can lead to disastrous consequences. It's crucial to respect their natural behavior and maintain a safe distance. Additionally, sharks have unique physiological needs, such as the requirement to keep moving to breathe, which can make handling them difficult and dangerous. Overall, it's essential to prioritize safety and education when encountering potentially hazardous wildlife.

    • The importance of being open-minded and challenging assumptionsFirst impressions can be misleading, and being open-minded allows us to appreciate unique aspects of new cultures and people.

      First impressions and assumptions can be misleading. In a surprising encounter, the speaker found that the people he had initially been wary of due to preconceived notions turned out to be cool and welcoming. This experience taught him to take things at face value and not let others' judgments shape his own perceptions. The speaker also shared his past experience of traveling to Russia and learning to appreciate the unique aspects of a new culture, despite initial confusion with the Cyrillic alphabet. Overall, this conversation highlights the importance of being open-minded and willing to challenge one's assumptions.

    • Exploring the Complexities of Non-Latin Script LanguagesLearning non-Latin script languages presents unique challenges due to their complex writing systems and numerous conjugations, but also offers the reward of communicating with people from diverse backgrounds.

      Learning non-Latin script languages like Chinese, Russian, and even Spanish can be a challenging experience due to their unique writing systems and large number of conjugations. The speaker in this conversation expresses his fascination and frustration with the way these languages are written and the differences between them and the Latin script used in English. He shares his personal experience of marrying a woman who speaks multiple languages, including Chinese, and how it makes communication easier for them when traveling. The conversation also touches upon the vast number of languages in the world, with hundreds even within a single country, and the complexity of some languages like Arabic and ancient Hebrew. Overall, the conversation highlights the intricacies and challenges of learning non-Latin script languages, but also the rewards of being able to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds.

    • Travel broadens horizons, witnessing rebuilding processTraveling exposes us to diverse cultures, languages, and histories. Witnessing rebuilding efforts in war-torn areas showcases human resilience and determination to move forward.

      Travel broadens our horizons and exposes us to diverse cultures, languages, and histories. The speaker shares her experiences of visiting war-torn areas, like Grozny in Chechnya, and witnessing the rebuilding process and the people's determination to move forward. She also reflects on her career in MMA and how she started refereeing, eventually leading to a decision to focus on one aspect over the other. Through her travels and experiences, she emphasizes the importance of embracing change and the beauty of seeing rebirth and progress in various parts of the world.

    • Understanding clinch work in MMA refereeingEffective refereeing requires patience, understanding of tactics, and balancing fighter safety with natural fight progression.

      Effective refereeing in mixed martial arts requires a deep understanding of the tactics and strategies used by fighters, particularly in clinch work. Referees must be patient and allow fighters to work through their struggles without unnecessary interruptions, as these moments can lead to significant advances or turning points in the fight. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing the value of clinch work and the potential consequences of prematurely separating fighters. This is especially true for specialists like Damian Maia, who excel in this area and can wear down opponents through consistent pressure. Ultimately, successful refereeing involves striking a balance between ensuring fighter safety and allowing the fight to unfold naturally.

    • Israel Adesanya vs Tiago Santos: A Clash of Skills and IntelligencesUFC 239 features exciting fights between skilled fighters like Israel Adesanya and Tiago Santos, showcasing their unique styles and adaptability.

      ISU fighter, Israel Adesanya, is a highly skilled and intelligent martial artist, particularly known for his ability to avoid takedowns and set traps for his opponents. His training in kickboxing and wrestling has given him a unique style that can adapt to various fighting styles, making him a formidable opponent. Adesanya's understanding of angles and information gathering is crucial to his success in the UFC. His opponent, Tiago Santos, is also a dangerous fighter who goes for broke, making their upcoming fight an exciting one to watch. The UFC 239 event features several high-profile fights, including Michael Chiesa versus Diego Sanchez, Jan Blachowicz versus Luke Rockhold, and Mugen Funkaruto versus Darren Till. These fights showcase the technical skills, crisp striking, and long-range capabilities of the fighters, as well as their ability to take and dish out damage.

    • Exploring the Excitement of MMA and Discovering New TalentsFrom Zabit's unconventional grappling and kicks to the global growth of MMA, the conversation highlights the constant discovery of new talents and the excitement they bring to the sport.

      The discussion revolves around the excitement of the current state of mixed martial arts (MMA) and the discovery of new talents emerging from various organizations around the world. Zabit's unique grappling style and unconventional kicks were highlighted, with a mention of his impressive following despite not fighting in the UFC. The conversation also touched on the appeal of pro wrestling, with the speaker expressing a preference for real fights over scripted ones. The growth of MMA as a global sport was emphasized, with the discovery of hidden talents in different parts of the world. Overall, the conversation showcased the passion and enthusiasm for the sport and the constant search for new and exciting fighters.

    • Encouragement leads to great successEncouragement from others can help individuals pursue their dreams and achieve great success. Being open to new ideas and experiences, even if uncomfortable, can lead to unique perspectives and creativity.

      Encouragement and support from others can lead to great success. The speaker shares a story about a music artist he met, who went from obscurity to fame after being encouraged by someone to pursue his dreams. The conversation between them was filled with humor and relaxation, which helped them connect deeply. The artist's unique perspective and creativity were evident, and he even tried his hand at stand-up comedy years later with great success. The speaker also touched upon the topic of freedom and the importance of being open to new ideas, even if it means stepping out of one's comfort zone. The conversation also revealed their shared interest in conspiracies, but the speaker acknowledged that with responsibilities and priorities, one tends to move past such distractions.

    • Bob Lazar's Claims About Area 51 and Extraterrestrial VehiclesDecades-old claims from a former Area 51 employee about UFOs and extraterrestrial life have gained renewed interest due to recent discoveries, leaving viewers to consider the implications of such a revelation.

      The documentary "Bob Lazar: Area 51 and Flying Saucers" presents compelling evidence from a man who claims to have worked at Area 51 and witnessed the existence of extraterrestrial vehicles. Bob Lazar's claims, made decades ago, have since been partially proven true, such as the existence of Area 51 and the discovery of the element he spoke about. Despite the skepticism, Lazar's detailed knowledge of these events and technologies raises intriguing questions about the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the government's involvement in covering up such discoveries. The documentary leaves one pondering the implications of such a revelation and how society would react.

    • Theories Challenging Widely Accepted KnowledgeHistorically, conspiracy theories have emerged questioning scientific facts and societal norms, like AIDS being a government conspiracy instead of a disease caused by HIV. Critical thinking and open dialogue are crucial in handling new or controversial info.

      Throughout history, there have been conspiracy theories that challenge widely accepted scientific knowledge and societal norms. One such theory was the belief that AIDS was a government conspiracy rather than a disease caused by the HIV virus. This theory gained traction in the late 1980s and was fueled by the distribution of pamphlets and the claims of certain individuals, including Dr. Peter Duesburg, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. Despite his credentials and legitimate research background, Duesburg's theory was met with opposition and dismissal. However, the persistence of such theories highlights the importance of critical thinking and open dialogue, especially in the face of new or controversial information. Additionally, the discussion underscores the potential for substances like marijuana to influence thought processes and lead individuals to consider unconventional perspectives.

    • Importance of staying open-minded in discussionsStaying open-minded in discussions allows for growth and learning, rather than treating opinions as a means to win arguments.

      While it's natural for opinions to evolve and for people to have different perspectives, it's important to remain flexible and open-minded. Opinions should not be treated as a means to win arguments, but rather as a tool for growth and learning. The discussion also touched upon the idea of universal basic income and its potential impact on people's lives. While some argue that providing people with a basic income would smooth things out, others believe that having a sense of purpose and meaning in one's work is essential for true happiness. Ultimately, it's a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. The key is to approach these discussions with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

    • Finding peace through financial freedomFinancial freedom reduces stress and worry, allowing for appreciation of simple joys and inspiration to help others.

      Financial freedom brings a sense of peace and freedom from constant pressure and worry. The speaker shares how he no longer has to stress about bills or debt, allowing him to appreciate the simple things in life. He also admires the motivational and positive outlook of Kevin Hart, who inspires him to help others with financial advice and motivation. The speaker plans to incorporate running and yoga into his travel routine and expresses admiration for those who prioritize health and wellness. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of finding joy in the present moment and appreciating the journey, rather than focusing solely on material possessions or status symbols.

    • Questionable practices in bare knuckle boxingConcerns over withheld pay, ethical treatment, and transparency in bare knuckle boxing have emerged, with some fighters facing financial struggles and even transitioning into refereeing or competition due to unpaid earnings.

      The bare knuckle boxing world is known for its raw and unapologetic action, but some questionable practices have come in the spotlight, such as withholding fighters' pay or docking their earnings for not delivering the desired level of action. These incidents have sparked criticism and concerns over the legality and ethics of the sport. Additionally, there are former fighters like Chris Lieben, who have transitioned into refereeing or returning to competition after retirement due to financial issues or unpaid earnings from the past. The focus on action and performance can sometimes lead to questionable decisions and treatment of fighters, highlighting the need for transparency and fairness in the industry.

    • Staying true to fighting styleFighters should prioritize their style and not let external pressures influence decisions in the ring. Jason Knight's performance in a bare-knuckle fight exemplifies this, as he stayed true to his style despite lowball offers. Understanding the reality of different fighting styles is crucial, and padding knuckles provides a false sense of security.

      Fighters should prioritize staying true to their fighting style and not let external pressures influence their decisions in the ring. The speaker shared an example of a fighter named Jason Knight, who gave a memorable performance in a bare-knuckle fight despite facing lowball offers. The speaker emphasized that fighters should not compromise their style or integrity, as they are ultimately responsible for the choices they make in the ring. Additionally, the speaker discussed the brutality of bare-knuckle fights and the false sense of security that paved gloves provide, arguing that if you're not going to pad anything else, there's no reason to pad the knuckles. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of staying true to oneself and understanding the reality of different fighting styles.

    • Contrasting Behaviors in Combat Sports and Peloton TrainingMMA athletes exhibit respect and honor towards each other despite physicality, while Peloton cyclists display aggressive behavior. Trust and respect among training partners in MMA are crucial for improvement.

      The perception of aggression and chaos in combat sports, such as MMA, can be influenced by the actions and words of individuals involved. The discussion highlights the contrasting behaviors exhibited by athletes in different sports, with the Peloton cyclists displaying intense and aggressive behavior towards each other during training. However, MMA athletes are perceived to be more honorable and respectful towards each other despite the physical nature of their sport. The importance of trust and respect among training partners in MMA is emphasized, as they put themselves in vulnerable situations to improve their skills. The conversation also reveals the misunderstanding of certain terms, such as "Peloton," leading to confusion. Overall, the conversation sheds light on the complexities of sports culture and the importance of respect and trust among athletes.

    • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fighter Paul Harris revolutionized MMA with his devastating leg locksBrazilian Jiu Jitsu fighter Paul Harris transformed MMA with his effective leg locks, earning him the nickname 'The Savage' and remaining undefeated in One FC.

      Paul Harris, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fighter, revolutionized MMA with his devastating leg locks. Imanari and Poharis were early pioneers in this technique, and Harris was particularly effective, leaving opponents with mangled knees. His strength and tenacity made him nearly impossible to defend against, earning him the nickname "The Savage." Despite his soft-spoken demeanor, Harris transformed into a pit bull in the cage, leaving opponents no choice but to tap out or face the consequences. His early fights showcased his unrelenting determination, and his unique grappling style made him a formidable opponent. Today, Harris continues to excel in MMA, remaining undefeated in One FC, where he is highly respected for his respect for martial arts values and his dedication to the sport. Other fighters, such as Timothy Nasty, demonstrate that there is talent outside of the UFC, and the sport continues to evolve with each new challenge.

    • Dagestan: Birthplace of Elite Martial ArtistsDagestan's emphasis on wrestling and strength training from a young age produces world-class martial artists, such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, Zabit Magomedsharipov, and Islam Makachev, who are known for their technical striking, immense pressure, and powerful performances.

      Dagestan, a region in the Caucasus Mountains, is known for producing highly skilled and formidable martial artists. These individuals, like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Zabit Magomedsharipov, and Islam Makachev, have gained international recognition for their technical striking, immense pressure, and powerful performances in combat sports. The region's rich history and athletic culture, which emphasizes wrestling and strength training from a young age, contribute to the development of these exceptional fighters. The excitement and pride surrounding these athletes are palpable in Dagestan, as evidenced by the explosive reactions to their victories. The smack talk from opponents, like Conor McGregor, only fuels their determination and intensity in the octagon.

    • Conor McGregor's title shot depends on respectful communicationTo earn another UFC title fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov, Conor McGregor must win against notable opponents and communicate respectfully, rather than engaging in trash talk.

      Conor McGregor's chances of securing another UFC title fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov may depend on his ability to win against notable opponents and communicate respectfully towards Khabib, rather than continuing to engage in trash talk. The conversation highlighted the effectiveness of Conor's showmanship in maintaining public interest, but also criticized his post-fight antics as counterproductive to his goal of securing a rematch. Additionally, the discussion touched upon the divisive nature of trash talking in MMA, with some finding it entertaining and others not. Overall, the consensus seemed to be that while trash talking can bring excitement to the sport, it's important for fighters to maintain a level of respect towards their opponents in order to earn another shot at the title.

    • The Role of Trash Talk and Entertainment in MMAMMA's use of trash talk and entertainment can generate excitement and sell pay-per-views, but it may not align with the desired image of respect and martial arts etiquette. Some fighters thrive on it, while others prefer to focus on their skills.

      The role of trash talk and entertainment in mixed martial arts (MMA) is a complex issue. While it can generate excitement and sell pay-per-views, it may not align with the desired image of respect and martial arts etiquette for the sport. Some fighters, like Conor McGregor, have built successful careers on their entertaining personalities and trash talk. However, others, like Michael Chiesa, may not need to fight for financial reasons and have different motivations. Ultimately, the decision of whether to encourage trash talk in MMA depends on how one views the sport's identity and its potential impact on its growth and athletes. With the shift to ESPN+, the financial implications of pay-per-views may change, and the balance between entertainment and respect in MMA remains an ongoing debate.

    • Growth and Improvement in Martial Arts, specifically Jiu JitsuMartial arts, particularly Jiu Jitsu, have evolved with increased skill, complexity, and athleticism. Unconventional athletes, like Pujanowski, prove that size and strength aren't the only factors for success.

      Martial arts, specifically Jiu Jitsu, have seen significant growth and improvement since the 1990s. The athletes are more skilled, the game is more complex, and the level of athleticism is higher. Despite this, only a small percentage of elite athletes choose to participate in martial arts, with most focusing on traditional sports like NFL, NBA, or MLB. However, as Jiu Jitsu gains popularity, more athletes are starting to take an interest. Even large athletes, who may not be suited for traditional sports, can find a place in martial arts. The recent success of unconventional fighters like Pujanowski has brought more attention to the sport and shown that size and strength are not the only factors in martial arts success.

    • Recognizing the value of experience and expertiseTrusting experts and recognizing experience can save careers and prevent further harm in critical situations.

      Experience and expertise are crucial in challenging situations. The discussion highlights the story of Tim, a fighter with extensive experience, who faced a tough opponent, Pooja. Despite Pooja's reputation, Tim's background and expertise made their match incredibly challenging. During the fight, a critical moment arose when Tim's arm was broken. Joe Rogan, the interviewer, trusted the doctor's expertise and let him examine Tim, saving him from potential further injury. If Rogan had intervened, Tim's career could have been negatively impacted. The story underscores the importance of recognizing the value of experience and expertise and trusting the right people in critical situations.

    • Frank Shamrock's Unique Perspectives in MMA CommentaryFormer UFC fighter Frank Shamrock brings unique insights to commentary, despite controversial suggestions like aiming to be the first death in the cage. He's a fan of ex-fighters in commentary and conducts seminars for aspiring referees.

      Frank Shamrock, a former UFC fighter turned commentator, brings unique perspectives to the table, often challenging the status quo. He once suggested that a fighter should aim to be the first death in the cage, which shocked the UFC and led to his temporary removal from commentary duties. Despite this incident, Frank's insights and knowledge make him a valuable commentator. He's a fan of former fighters doing commentary and has a knack for comedy. Frank has also conducted seminars for aspiring referees, sharing his expertise and experience. During these seminars, he teaches techniques and evaluates their application, ensuring that referees understand the intricacies of mixed martial arts. Overall, Frank's unique experiences and dedication to the sport make him an invaluable contributor to the MMA community.

    • Understanding MMA techniques and real-time evaluationTo become an effective MMA referee or judge, one must master techniques, physically demonstrate them for certification, take notes during matches, and use Eddie Bravo's scoring method for clear communication.

      Effective judging and refereeing in MMA requires a deep understanding of techniques and the ability to evaluate their success in real-time. The speaker emphasized the importance of physical demonstration of techniques for certification and encouraged note-taking during matches to prepare for post-match discussions. He also highlighted the value of Eddie Bravo's scoring method, which breaks down techniques and assigns values for effective communication during debates. This certificate, issued by the speaker, is recognized by various organizations in the US, enabling individuals to apply for jobs as referees and judges in the MMA industry.

    • John McCarthy's Impressive Background and PassionsJohn McCarthy, a former MMA fighter, referee, and breakdancer, has an impressive background in wrestling, refereeing high-level fights, and a passion for yoga. His flexibility, dexterity, and unparalleled credibility make him a respected figure in the MMA community.

      Big John McCarthy, a former MMA fighter and referee, has an impressive history in the sport and is now a respected commentator. McCarthy's background in old-school wrestling and refereeing high-level fights gives him unparalleled credibility. One notable moment in his career was stopping the fight between Marillo Bustamante and Matt Lindland twice in one night. Soccer Rob, another fighter known for his submission holds, carried the flag of catch wrestling and was a formidable opponent. McCarthy's flexibility and dexterity, honed from his breakdancing background, are remarkable, making him a standout figure in the MMA community. Despite not having rolled with him, McCarthy's reputation precedes him, and he continues to inspire and influence the sport. Yoga, particularly hot yoga, is another passion of McCarthy's, and he believes it significantly improves dexterity, balance, and even helps with old injuries. McCarthy's dedication to his craft and his ability to adapt and evolve make him a true legend in the world of MMA.

    • Yoga and MMA: A Shared Passion for Mind and BodyDiscover the benefits of yoga for stress release and connect with like-minded individuals in the MMA community. Stay updated on upcoming events and fights through meaningful conversations.

      Yoga practice, whether on the road or at home, provides a meditative experience that helps release mental stress for approximately 90 minutes. Herb Dean, a fellow yoga enthusiast, and the speaker had an extended conversation about their shared interest and upcoming events in the MMA world. They discussed how athletic commissions sometimes inform them about upcoming events at varying times, with some being more proactive than others. They also expressed excitement about various upcoming fights, including those featuring notable fighters like Aldo and Volcanovski. The conversation ended with an invitation for Herb Dean to join them for a fight companion event on May 11th. Overall, their conversation showcased their shared passion for yoga and MMA, as well as the importance of meaningful conversations and connections. You can find Herb Dean on Twitter and Instagram under the handle @HerbDeanMMA.

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    Jack Carr is a bestselling author, retired Navy SEAL, and host of the “Danger Close” podcast. His newest book, "Red Sky Mourning,” is available now. www.officialjackcarr.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #2164 - Action Bronson

    #2164 - Action Bronson
    Action Bronson is a musician, chef, painter, and author. Look out for his forthcoming album "Johann Sebastian Bachlava the Doctor'' and watch his series "F*ck, That's Delicious" on YouTube. www.actionbronson.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #2163 - Freeway Rick Ross

    #2163 - Freeway Rick Ross
    Freeway Rick Ross is a former eighties drug kingpin who is now an author, motivational speaker, and community advocate. www.freewayrickyross.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #2162 - Tim Dillon

    #2162 - Tim Dillon
    Tim Dillon is a stand-up comic, actor, and host of "The Tim Dillon Show" podcast. His latest comedy special, "Tim Dillon: A Real Hero," is available on Netflix. Look for his book "Death by Boomers: How the Worst Generation Destroyed the Planet, but First a Child" in 2024. www.timdilloncomedy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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