TLDR;
In this episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan interviews Gable Steveson, an Olympic gold medallist wrestler transitioning to MMA. They discuss Steveson's background, his training with Jon Jones, his decision to pursue MMA, and his future aspirations in the sport. They also touch on topics such as the state of wrestling and MMA, the importance of mindset, and the challenges of fame.
- Steveson's unique journey from wrestling to football and WWE before committing to MMA.
- The influence of Jon Jones on Steveson's MMA career and his approach to training.
- The importance of mindset, focus, and surrounding oneself with the right people to achieve excellence.
Introduction [0:12]
Joe Rogan welcomes Gable Steveson to the podcast, noting the prophetic nature of his name, being named after wrestling icon Dan Gable. Steveson shares the story of how his mother chose his name, inspired by Dan Gable's prominence in wrestling. They express a shared wish that Dan Gable had transitioned to MMA during his prime. The conversation touches on the lack of a significant professional outlet for wrestling and the potential of organisations like RAF to fill that void, while acknowledging the dominance of MMA and its association with wrestling.
Wrestling vs. Other Sports [1:04]
The discussion shifts to the popularity of soccer in America compared to other countries, highlighting the financial incentives and cultural significance that drive its global appeal. Rogan and Steveson explore why wrestling hasn't achieved the same level of mainstream success in the US, despite its exciting nature and easy-to-understand format. Rogan admits to wrestling in high school and doing taekwondo, prompting Steveson to suggest Rogan should try it again. They discuss the importance of flexibility in martial arts and the dedication required to achieve it, referencing Yoel Romero as an example of an older athlete with exceptional flexibility and explosiveness.
Yoel Romero and Athleticism in MMA [4:51]
Steveson praises Yoel Romero's freakish athleticism and longevity, noting his impressive performance against Pat Downey. They discuss Romero's late start in MMA and speculate about what he could have achieved if he had started earlier. Rogan points out that many freak athletes in America go to football or basketball due to the money and traditional sports avenues, which means MMA often misses out on top-tier athletic talent. Steveson emphasises the mental toughness and conditioning required for wrestling, considering it a next-level sport in terms of physical and mental demands.
Transitioning Wrestling to MMA [7:22]
Steveson discusses how successful wrestlers in UFC are adapting their wrestling base to MMA, focusing on shot selection, finishing techniques, and cage awareness. He highlights fighters like Islam Makhachev and Khamzat Chimaev who effectively blend wrestling with striking. Steveson shares his training approach, emphasising the importance of developing striking skills to complement his wrestling base, making him a more well-rounded and feared competitor. He acknowledges the need to be coachable and trust his trainers to reach an elite level in MMA.
From Wrestling to Football to WWE [8:20]
Steveson recounts his journey from wrestling to a brief stint in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, despite having no prior football experience. He describes the challenges of learning the playbook and adapting to the physical demands of the sport. After being cut, he had try-outs with the Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts, but ultimately returned to wrestling. MMA was always in the back of his mind, but he wanted to explore other options first. He shares his mother's reaction to his decision to pursue MMA, noting her nervousness and reluctance to watch his fights. Steveson also discusses his brief experience with WWE, explaining that he left because he needed to satisfy his competitive drive and couldn't fully commit to the business.
Training with Jon Jones [16:40]
Steveson details his decision to fully commit to MMA after the NCAA championships, leading him to train with Jon Jones in Miami. He explains how he connected with Jones through Instagram and how Jones invited him to train as a wrestling partner. Steveson describes the profound impact of training with Jones, highlighting Jones's drive, mental fortitude, and attention to detail. He shares how observing Jones's approach to fighting and life flipped a switch in him, solidifying his desire to pursue MMA at the highest level.
Jon Jones's Mindset and Training [20:31]
Rogan and Steveson discuss Jon Jones's career, noting that his close fights were often due to lack of training and partying. Steveson emphasises the incredible opportunity he had to train with Jones, especially given Jones's status as one of the greatest of all time. He admits that he initially didn't know how to defend punches but was eager to learn. Steveson highlights Jones's strategic approach to fighting, including his meticulous game planning and study of opponents' tendencies. He contrasts this with his own wrestling background, where he never watched film, preferring to rely on his instincts and athleticism.
Heavyweight Division and Jon Jones's Future [27:02]
Rogan praises Steveson's speed and athleticism, suggesting he could quickly become a top contender in the shallow heavyweight division. They discuss potential opponents and the uncertainty surrounding Jon Jones's future in the sport. Steveson shares that Jones wants to have one more fight and wants Steveson to be on the same card. Rogan suggests a fight between Alex Pereira and Jones at the White House. Steveson recounts a story about Jones training hard despite being sick, highlighting his dedication and toughness.
Developing New Skills and the Importance of Excellence [32:18]
The conversation shifts to Jon Jones's development of a spinning back kick late in his career, highlighting his coachability and willingness to learn new techniques. Steveson reveals that Jones was practicing the kick the night before his fight with Stipe Miocic. Rogan praises excellence and watching fighters grow and develop new skills. They discuss Petr Yan as a blueprint for modern MMA fighters, highlighting his diverse skill set and flow state.
Training Styles and the Importance of Mindset [38:02]
Rogan and Steveson discuss different training styles in MMA, comparing Steveson's approach of incorporating all skills in each workout to Ilia Topuria's method of focusing on individual skills separately. They acknowledge that there's no one-size-fits-all approach and that it depends on the individual and their team. Steveson emphasises the importance of absorbing information and showcasing his abilities in his early fights. They touch on the shallowness of the heavyweight division and the potential for Iranian wrestlers to make an impact. Steveson expresses his love for wrestling but affirms his commitment to MMA.
The Power of Mindset and the Dangers of Over-Reliance on External Factors [1:05:43]
Steveson emphasises the importance of mindset in achieving success, stating that he often beats opponents before even stepping into the ring. Rogan shares an anecdote about a coach who prefers fighters who don't need mental coaches, highlighting the value of innate mental toughness. Steveson agrees, arguing that some people rely too much on external factors like mental coaches instead of developing their own inner drive. He values the close-knit team he has at Minnesota, preferring to avoid outside interference.
Training and Future Plans [1:08:06]
Steveson discusses his current training situation, noting that he's still based in Minneapolis and trains with Billy Simon. He also travels to Jackson Wink in New Mexico for main training camps. He's expecting a baby girl soon, which will influence his immediate plans. Steveson explains that he religiously trains to constantly develop his skills and is always ready to fight, though he prefers to avoid short-notice opportunities. He reiterates his admiration for Jon Jones's approach to fight preparation.
The UFC and the Value of a Championship [1:13:37]
Rogan and Steveson discuss the UFC's heavyweight weight limit and the possibility of having no weight limit. They agree that there should be more weight classes in the UFC. Rogan emphasises the prestige of being a UFC champion, noting that it carries more weight than titles in other organisations like PFL. Steveson agrees, stating that a UFC title is a stamp of recognition that resonates with the public.
Boxing and the UFC [1:16:10]
The conversation shifts to boxing, with Rogan and Steveson discussing Terence Crawford's demand for $100 million for a rematch with Canelo Alvarez. They criticise boxing journalists for disrespecting Crawford and discuss the upcoming boxing promotion involving the Saudis and the UFC. Rogan laments the multiple belts in boxing and the need for a unified champion. They praise Crawford's skills and accomplishments, with Rogan questioning whether he is above Floyd Mayweather.
Conspiracy Theories and the Dark Side of Power [1:58:54]
Rogan and Steveson touch on conspiracy theories, with Steveson revealing his father's interest in them. Rogan shares his belief that many conspiracies are real, citing the Gulf of Tonkin incident and the heroin trade in Afghanistan as examples. They discuss the corruption and money involved in the drug trade and the temptation it presents to people in power. Rogan recommends the documentary "Cocaine Cowboys," which explores the corruption and violence that plagued Miami during the cocaine boom of the 1980s.
The Importance of a Strong Support System and Future Aspirations [2:10:15]
Rogan and Steveson discuss the importance of having a strong support system and avoiding negative influences. Rogan notes that women and partying are the bane of every fighter's existence. Steveson credits Jon Jones for keeping him on a straight path and offering guidance. Rogan asks about Steveson's timeline and future plans, and Steveson expresses his desire to debut in the UFC at the White House. He wants to have a couple more fights before then. Steveson wants to be a UFC champion and beat Stipe Miocic's record for title defenses. He wants to be remembered as a good man who provided for his family and stood up through peaks and valleys.
