JRE MMA Show #172 with Gable Steveson
The Joe Rogan Experience
Jan 01
JRE MMA Show #172 with Gable Steveson
JRE MMA Show #172 with Gable Steveson
The Joe Rogan Experience
Jan 01
In this episode, Joe Rogan welcomes Gable Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist and elite wrestler making a bold transition into mixed martial arts. The conversation dives deep into the mindset, challenges, and aspirations of an athlete stepping from one world of combat dominance into another.
Gable Steveson discusses his journey from Olympic wrestling to pursuing MMA, inspired by training with Jon Jones and witnessing the scale of UFC stardom. Despite NFL tryouts and a brief WWE appearance, he found his true path in mixed martial arts, where his elite wrestling base gives him rare potential in the heavyweight division. He reflects on his knockout boxing debut, ongoing striking development, and the importance of preserving his grappling roots. The discussion covers mental toughness, training discipline, and concerns over UFC weight class limitations. They also examine broader topics like fighter safety, glove design, and the impact of fame, while touching on legends like Mike Tyson and Terrence Crawford. Steveson emphasizes focus, legacy, and surrounding oneself with strong support, both in sport and life. Personal reflections on fatherhood, dogs, and ethical dilemmas add depth to his evolving journey toward becoming a UFC champion.
09:10
09:10
Started MMA training at 21 with no prior experience in striking or football.
26:50
26:50
John doesn't take short-notice fights; he studies opponents' tendencies and has high fight IQ.
33:33
33:33
John Jones developed a powerful spinning back kick at 36, showing brilliant late-career evolution.
52:02
52:02
No human can stay on a bucking bull indefinitely—it's only a matter of time before the bull wins.
1:08:03
1:08:03
One can get good at anything with the wrestling mindset.
1:10:17
1:10:17
Doesn't want to coach athletes who rely on mental coaches; values self-sufficiency
1:19:41
1:19:41
Heavyweight might have no limit in UFC due to current weight class constraints.
1:28:56
1:28:56
Mike Tyson's speed was unmatched among heavyweights in his prime.
1:38:52
1:38:52
Michael Bisping fought 11 UFC bouts blind in one eye
1:43:18
1:43:18
Developing MMA gloves like mittens could reduce eye pokes without affecting performance.
1:56:30
1:56:30
Mike Tyson said God and the devil both favored him—one gave talent, the other temptation.
2:21:58
2:21:58
Gable Steveson aims to be UFC champion and surpass Stipe Miocic's defense record
