JRE MMA Show #172 with Gable Steveson
In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Olympic gold medalist wrestler Gable Steveson discusses his background in wrestling and his transition into MMA. Named after wrestling legend Dan Gable, Steveson shares his experiences training with Jon Jones in Miami, where he has been developing his striking abilities and learning about both the technical and business aspects of professional fighting.
The conversation explores Steveson's goals in the UFC heavyweight division, including his aim to break the title defense record. Rogan and Steveson examine the current state of UFC's heavyweight class, noting the limited number of championship-level contenders and discussing potential improvements to the weight class structure, such as implementing 10-pound gaps between divisions.
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1-Page Summary
Gable Steveson's Wrestling Background and Accomplishments
Gable Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling, has expressed interest in competing in the 2028 Olympics. His connection to wrestling began before birth when his mother named him after wrestling legend Dan Gable, setting the stage for his future success in the sport.
Joe Rogan emphasizes that Olympic wrestling creates elite athletes with unparalleled mental toughness and discipline, making it an ideal foundation for mixed martial arts (MMA).
Steveson's Training With Jones and Transition to MMA
Despite having minimal MMA experience, Steveson began training with Jon Jones in Miami. Jones has taken on a comprehensive mentoring role, teaching Steveson not only fighting techniques but also providing guidance on professional conduct and business matters. Their training sessions, sometimes lasting until midnight, include video study and intensive "shark baiting" scenarios.
Inspired by his work with Jones, Steveson aims to become a UFC heavyweight champion and establish himself as an all-time great. He acknowledges that while wrestling is his strength, he's committed to developing his striking abilities and overall MMA skillset.
Heavyweight Division in MMA and Steveson's Potential
Both Rogan and Steveson note that the UFC's heavyweight division is relatively shallow, with only a few championship-level contenders like Tom Aspinall and Cyril Gane. This creates an opportunity for new talent to make an impact. Steveson's elite wrestling background and exceptional athleticism position him as a potential disruptor in the division.
Looking ahead, Steveson has set ambitious goals, including breaking Stipe Miocic's record of five heavyweight title defenses. Rogan suggests that the UFC's weight class structure could benefit from refinement, proposing 10-pound gaps between classes to better accommodate fighters of varying builds.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Dan Gable is a legendary American wrestler and coach known for his dominant collegiate and international wrestling career. He won a gold medal at the 1972 Olympics without surrendering a single point. Gable later became a highly successful coach at the University of Iowa, producing numerous champions. Being named after him symbolizes a legacy of excellence and toughness in wrestling.
- "Shark baiting" in MMA training refers to intense drills where one fighter faces multiple opponents or continuous attacks without rest. It simulates high-pressure situations to build endurance, mental toughness, and quick decision-making. The goal is to prepare fighters for overwhelming or relentless scenarios in actual fights. This method helps improve a fighter's ability to stay calm and effective under extreme stress.
- Jon Jones is a highly accomplished mixed martial artist known for his dominance in the UFC light heavyweight division. He has held the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship multiple times and is considered one of the greatest MMA fighters ever. Jones is known for his versatile fighting style, combining striking, wrestling, and unorthodox techniques. His experience and success make him a valuable mentor for fighters transitioning into MMA.
- The UFC heavyweight division includes fighters weighing between 206 and 265 pounds. It is the highest weight class in the UFC, often featuring larger, powerful athletes. The division has fewer elite contenders compared to lighter classes, making it less competitive at the top. Champions like Stipe Miocic have set records for title defenses, highlighting the division's prestige.
- Tom Aspinall is a British mixed martial artist competing in the UFC heavyweight division, known for his striking and grappling skills. Ciryl Gane is a French MMA fighter and former UFC interim heavyweight champion, recognized for his technical striking and movement. Stipe Miocic is an American MMA fighter widely regarded as one of the greatest UFC heavyweights, holding the record for most title defenses in the division. All three are prominent figures in the UFC heavyweight landscape.
- "Five heavyweight title defenses" means successfully winning five consecutive fights while holding the UFC heavyweight championship. Each time the champion fights a challenger and wins, it counts as one title defense. Defending a title multiple times shows dominance and consistency in the division. Stipe Miocic holds the record for the most defenses in UFC heavyweight history.
- UFC weight classes group fighters by body weight to ensure fair competition and safety. Current gaps between classes vary, sometimes exceeding 20 pounds, which can create size mismatches. Smaller, consistent 10-pound gaps would allow fighters to compete against opponents closer to their own size. This can lead to more evenly matched fights and reduce advantages based solely on weight.
- Olympic wrestling focuses on grappling techniques like takedowns and control without strikes. MMA combines striking, grappling, and submissions from various martial arts, making wrestling a key base skill. Wrestlers often transition well to MMA due to their strength, balance, and ability to control opponents on the ground. However, they must learn striking and submission skills to succeed fully in MMA.
- An "elite wrestling background" means having top-level skills and achievements in wrestling, such as competing in the Olympics or national championships. Wrestling develops strength, balance, control, and the ability to dictate where a fight takes place, which are crucial in MMA. Wrestlers often excel in takedowns and ground control, giving them an advantage over opponents less skilled in grappling. This foundation helps them transition effectively into MMA, where multiple fighting styles are combined.
Counterarguments
- While Olympic wrestling is a strong foundation for MMA, success in wrestling does not guarantee success in MMA due to the additional skill sets required, such as striking and submissions.
- Training with Jon Jones, while beneficial, may not be sufficient for Steveson to overcome the experience gap in MMA, as the sport requires years of dedicated practice across various disciplines.
- The mentorship of Jon Jones could be seen as controversial due to Jones' history of legal issues and controversies in his professional career, which may not align with the ideal professional conduct for an up-and-coming athlete.
- The notion that the UFC heavyweight division is shallow might be seen as dismissive of the talent and skill of the existing fighters within the division.
- Aspiring to break Stipe Miocic's record is an ambitious goal, but it may be premature to discuss such achievements before Steveson has established himself in the sport of MMA.
- Joe Rogan's suggestion to refine the UFC's weight class structure with 10-pound gaps may not address the complexities of weight cutting and fighter safety, and could have unintended consequences on the sport's competitive balance.
- The transition from wrestling to MMA is challenging, and while Steveson's wrestling background is an advantage, it may not be enough to dominate in the heavyweight division without significant development in other areas of MMA.
- The success of an athlete in MMA is not solely determined by their physical attributes and wrestling skill; factors such as fight IQ, adaptability, and the ability to handle adversity are also crucial.
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Gable Steveson's Wrestling Background and Accomplishments
Gable Steveson has announced his enduring passion for wrestling, suggesting that he may compete in the 2028 Olympics. His journey has been shaped by his mother's early vision and the foresight of naming him after a wrestling icon.
Steveson's Athletic Pedigree and Impressive Wrestling Career
Steveson, Named After Wrestler Gable, Wins Olympic Gold, Fulfilling His Mother's Vision
Steveson's significant link to wrestling began before his birth when his mother chose to name him Gable. This decision was inspired by the legendary wrestler Dan Gable, a name she heard repeated at a tournament in Iowa. Dan Gable himself was a monumental figure in wrestling, especially in the Midwest. Gable Steveson's achievement in winning Olympic gold resonates as a predestined fulfillment of his mother's vision, which tied his name to greatness in the sport of wrestling.
Wrestling Instilled Steveson's Mental Toughness and Discipline For MMA
Joe Rogan asserts that the level of athleticism, dedication, and discipline required to earn a gold medal in Olympic wrestling places an individual in an elite category. Accordi ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Gable Steveson's Wrestling Background and Accomplishments
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Dan Gable is a legendary American wrestler and coach known for his dominant collegiate and international wrestling career. He won a gold medal at the 1972 Olympics without surrendering a single point. Gable later became a highly successful coach at the University of Iowa, leading his teams to numerous NCAA championships. His influence and success have made him an iconic figure in the sport of wrestling.
- Naming a child after a sports figure often reflects admiration and hope that the child will embody similar qualities or achievements. It can symbolize a family's aspirations and create a psychological connection to the figure's legacy. This practice can inspire motivation and a sense of purpose in the child. It also serves as a narrative of destiny or vision, linking identity to future success.
- Wrestling provides essential skills for controlling opponents on the ground, a key aspect of MMA. It teaches balance, leverage, and takedown techniques that help dictate where the fight takes place. Wrestlers develop strong conditioning and mental resilience from intense training and competition. These attributes make wrestling a highly effective base for transitioning into MMA.
- Wrestling teaches control over where the fight takes place, allowing athletes to dictate whether to stand or grapple. It develops strong takedown and takedown-defense skills crucial in MMA. Wrestlers build exceptional balance, strength, and endurance, which are vital for MMA success. The sport also fosters mental resilience and strategic thinking under pressure.
- Joe Rogan is a well-known comedian, podcast host, and former mixed martial arts (MMA) commentator. He has extensive experience in MMA, having worked as a color commentator for the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) for many years. His opinions on wrestling and MMA are respected because of his deep knowledge and firsthand involvement in the sport. Rogan's insights often influence fans and athle ...
Counterarguments
- While wrestling may instill mental toughness and discipline, it is not the only sport or discipline that can do so; other combat sports and high-level athletic pursuits also foster these qualities.
- The assertion that wrestling is the optimal foundation for MMA could be debated, as MMA encompasses various disciplines, and successful fighters have come from diverse backgrounds, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, and more.
- The idea that Steveson's wrestling background will give him a significant advantage in MMA may be true, but success in MMA also requires proficiency in striking and submission grappling, which are not wrestling's primary focus.
- The narrative that Gable Steveson's Olympic gold medal was a predestined fulfillment of his mother's vision could be seen as an oversimplification of the hard work and personal dedication required to achieve such a feat, which may not be solely attributed to his namesake.
- Joe Rogan's assertion about the level of resources required for an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling may not account for individuals who have succeeded despite limited resources, highlig ...
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Steveson's Training With Jones and Transition to MMA
Steveson's Training With MMA Great Jon Jones
Steveson, With Limited MMA Experience, Was Mentored by Jones
Gable Steveson, having flown down to Miami after the NCAA season, swiftly connected with Jon Jones, who had previously invited him for joint training sessions. With no formal MMA training and minimal striking experience, Steveson leaped at the opportunity, eager to absorb knowledge. Jones is in his corner not only for fighting advice but for life and business guidance too, teaching Steveson how to speak and conduct himself professionally.
Lessons From Jones: Fight Strategy, Mentality, and Skills Development Taught Steveson
Jones imparts crucial fight tendencies and strategies to Steveson, even through video studies. Gable Steveson testifies to the weight of Jones's mentorship, likening it to possessing a "Ferrari with Ferrari gas." Despite limited MMA knowledge, Jones reassured him during his first fight and continued to guide him, especially during demanding training sessions lasting up to midnight. Jones's mentorship also covers nuances of strategy, as he teaches Steveson to study the fighters' stances and positions. Moreover, Jones showcases the depth of his expertise through 'shark baiting' training scenarios, impressing upon Steveson the value of mental toughness and skill versatility.
Steveson's Mindset and Approach to His MMA Career
Steveson Aims to Be UFC Heavyweight Champion and All-time Great
Steveson’s experiences with Jon Jones have fueled his aspirations to dominate in MMA as a heavyweight champion and establish himself as an all-time great. His training experiences with Jones have impressed upon him the one-on-one challenge and the glory of public stature associated with the sport. Steveson expresses his drive to surpass his wrestling renown and demonstrate a finely-honed striking ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Steveson's Training With Jones and Transition to MMA
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Gable Steveson is a highly accomplished American wrestler known for winning Olympic gold in freestyle wrestling. He gained fame for his dominant collegiate wrestling career at the University of Minnesota. Steveson is relatively new to MMA, transitioning from wrestling to mixed martial arts recently. His wrestling skills provide a strong foundation for his MMA career.
- Jon Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists in history. He has held the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship multiple times and is known for his versatile fighting style and strategic intelligence. Jones has defeated many top-ranked opponents, setting records for title defenses and fight performances. His influence extends beyond fighting, as he is also respected for his knowledge of the sport and mentorship of younger fighters.
- The NCAA season refers to the collegiate wrestling competition organized by the National Collegiate Athletic Association in the United States. It is a key period where wrestlers compete at the college level, often culminating in national championships. Gable Steveson was a standout NCAA wrestler before transitioning to MMA, making this season a significant phase in his athletic career. His performance in the NCAA established his wrestling credentials and reputation.
- In MMA, "striking" refers to offensive techniques using punches, kicks, elbows, and knees. "Minimal striking experience" means Steveson had little practice or skill in these stand-up fighting methods. His background was primarily in wrestling, which focuses on grappling and takedowns rather than striking. Developing striking skills is essential for success in MMA, which combines multiple fighting styles.
- "Shark baiting" in MMA training refers to a drill where one fighter faces multiple opponents or continuous attacks to build endurance and mental toughness. It simulates overwhelming pressure, forcing the fighter to stay composed and strategic under stress. This method helps develop resilience and adaptability in real fight situations. The term draws from the idea of being surrounded by "sharks," or threats, requiring survival skills.
- The UFC heavyweight champion is the top fighter in the Ultimate Fighting Championship's heaviest weight class, typically over 205 pounds. Holding this title signifies being the best among the largest and often most powerful fighters in MMA. It brings immense prestige, financial rewards, and global recognition. The champion often becomes a key figure in the sport's history and culture.
- Joe Rogan is a prominent MMA commentator and analyst known for his deep knowledge of the sport. He has been a longtime color commentator for UFC events, providing expert insights during fights. Rogan's background in martial arts and his engaging commentary style have made him influential in shaping MMA culture and fan understanding. His opinions often carry weight w ...
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Heavyweight Division in MMA and Steveson's Potential
Gable Steveson criticizes the heavyweight division's skill level and, alongside Joe Rogan, suggests that there is plenty of room for new, disruptive talent like himself.
The Relative Shallowness of the UFC Heavyweight Division
Joe Rogan and Gable Steveson both acknowledge the shallowness of the UFC’s heavyweight division, suggesting an opportunity for new contenders to make a significant impact.
Limited Contenders Create Opportunity for New Force to Emerge
Rogan describes the current UFC heavyweight division as "shallow," indicating that beyond a few names like Tom Aspinall, Cyril Gane, and potentially John Jones and Francis Ngannou, there aren't many championship-level contenders. This creates an opportunity for a new force to emerge in the ranks. Steveson also believes there is room for a new contender like himself to come in and dominate, using his victory over Taha Akgul in the Olympics as an example of his potential.
Steveson's Athletic Skills and Wrestling Pedigree Disrupt Heavyweight Ranks
Steveson’s elite wrestling background and athleticism are discussed as potential game-changers in the division. Rogan points out the rarity of Steveson's skills for his size and believes he could be a championship-caliber athlete, even before competing in the UFC. This view is reinforced by Steveson's confidence in his wrestling ability to disrupt the current rankings.
Steveson's Plan for Gradual UFC Integration
There is no precise discussion of Steveson's plans for a gradual integration into the UFC, but his remarks and the conversation with Rogan suggest he may be considering a strategic start.
Steveson Seeks Tune-Up Fights in Smaller Promotions Before UFC Debut
Though not explicitly stated, the conversation implies that Steveson may seek a gradual approach by first engaging in smaller promotions to refine his MMA ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Heavyweight Division in MMA and Steveson's Potential
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Gable Steveson is an American wrestler who won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He is known for his exceptional athleticism and dominant wrestling style. Steveson has gained attention for transitioning from amateur wrestling to mixed martial arts (MMA). His potential impact in MMA is highly anticipated due to his wrestling pedigree and physical abilities.
- The UFC heavyweight division is the category for fighters weighing between 206 and 265 pounds. It is historically significant as it often features some of the most powerful and physically imposing athletes in mixed martial arts. Champions in this division are highly regarded due to the combination of size, strength, and skill required to succeed. The division's competitive depth affects the level of challenge and prestige for fighters aiming to become champion.
- Joe Rogan is a well-known commentator and analyst for the UFC, the leading MMA organization. He has a background in martial arts and has been involved in MMA for decades. His opinions are respected because of his deep knowledge and experience in the sport. Rogan's commentary influences fans and fighters alike.
- Taha Akgul is a highly accomplished Turkish wrestler and multiple-time Olympic and World Champion. Defeating Akgul at the Olympics demonstrates Steveson's elite wrestling skill against one of the sport's best competitors. This victory highlights Steveson's potential to excel in combat sports beyond traditional wrestling. It signals that Steveson can compete at the highest international level, boosting his credibility in MMA.
- A "title defense" occurs when a reigning champion successfully wins a fight while holding the championship belt. Stipe Miocic's record of five title defenses means he won five consecutive fights as the UFC heavyweight champion. This is notable because it shows consistent dominance and the ability to maintain the top position against all challengers. Few fighters in UFC history have defended their title as many times, making it a prestigious achievement.
- Weight classes in MMA group fighters by body weight to ensure fair and safe competition. Each class has an upper weight limit, preventing mismatches between much larger and smaller opponents. This system promotes skill-based contests rather than size advantages. Adjusting weight classes can help accommodate fighters' natural sizes and improve competitive balance.
- The UFC heavyweight division is considered "shallow" because it has fewer high-level fighters compared to lighter weight classes. Heavyweight fighters often have more varied skill levels and less consistent competition. Injuries and shorter careers also reduce the number of active top contenders. This creates fewer credible challengers for the title, making the division less competitive overall.
- Smaller promotions are regional or less prominent mixed martial arts organizations where fighters often start their professional care ...
Counterarguments
- The UFC heavyweight division may not be as shallow as suggested; it could be that the top talent is so dominant it overshadows the skill of other fighters.
- The success of Olympic wrestling does not guarantee success in the UFC due to the multifaceted nature of MMA, which requires proficiency in striking and submission grappling as well.
- While Steveson's wrestling background is impressive, transitioning to MMA involves a steep learning curve, and his impact on the division should not be presumed until he has proven himself in actual MMA fights.
- The idea of Steveson being a championship-caliber athlete before competing in the UFC might underestimate the experience and skill set required to compete at the highest level of MMA.
- Gradually integrating into the UFC through smaller promotions might not be the best path for every fighter; some may benefit from diving straight into higher-level competition.
- Breaking the record for title defenses is an ambitious goal, but it may be premature to discuss such achievemen ...
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