#1598 - Mark "The Undertaker" Calaway
NaN minutesEpisode #1598
World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Famer Mark "The Undertaker" Calaway is a thirty-year veteran of the sports entertainment industry, and widely considered one of the best professional wrestlers of all time. Now retired from the ring, his story is the subject of the wrestling retrospective "Undertaker: The Last Ride".
Episode Timestamps
Life on the Road and Performing in Clubs vs. Theaters
- Joe Rogan discusses his love for being on the road and performing in clubs
- Exploration of the difference in experience between clubs and theaters for comedians
- Anecdote about a drunk fan at a show in Dallas
Audience Dynamics and Female Fans
- Conversation about audience demographics and female fans of Joe Rogan's podcast
- Mention of female fighters and their impacts on changing public perception of fighting
- Joe Rogan's observations on camaraderie in team sports and competitive environments
Hip Preservation and Surgery: A New Option
- Description of a leading doctor specializing in hip preservation and orthoscopic procedures
- Discussion on the process of cleaning hip joints and using innovative instruments
- Anecdote of the speaker undergoing Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery with positive results
Life of a Pro Wrestler: Rigorous Schedule and Industry Evolution
- Insight into the demanding schedule of professional wrestlers with over 270 shows a year
- Explanation of the constant travel and challenges faced by wrestlers in the early nineties
- Evolution of the industry with the introduction of drug testing, wellness programs, and improved athlete care
Discussion on Steroids in Wrestling and Testing Procedures
- Joe Rogan talks about the historical use of steroids in wrestling to maintain size and performance levels
- Exploration on the current testing procedures for steroids in wrestling and the frequency of tests
- Anecdotes about personal experiences with mandatory testing in wrestling and testing consistency
Transition from Basketball to Wrestling and Training Beginnings
- Joe Rogan discusses his transition from basketball to wrestling due to physical demands and opportunities
- Describing the influence of a gym acquaintance in sparking interest in wrestling and reigniting his passion for the sport
- Narrative on the significant decision-making process and challenges faced in pursuing wrestling training
Training with Buzz - The Brutal Initiation Process
- Recollection of the initial training experience with Buzz involving intense cardio workouts and brutal physical training
- Description of the method used by trainers in that era to weed out the weak students through physical challenges and tests of endurance
- Anecdote about the tough wrestling environment, where trainers would aim to take money from students and physically push them to their limits
Persistence Pays Off - Landing the First Break in Professional Wrestling
- Narrative about Joe Rogan's persistence in trying to get booked by world class championship wrestling in Dallas
- Turning point when Fritz von Erich notices Rogan's resemblance to his lost son David and decides to give him a chance
- Account of Rogan's nervous first professional match against the formidable Bruiser Brody and the intense experience in the ring
First Steps into Wrestling and Learning Experiences
- Joe Rogan recounts his early days in wrestling at a place called the sportatorium in Dallas
- Description of a brutal match and the lessons learned in the ring
- Discussion on how one encounter or mentor can alter the course of someone's life
Evolution of Pro Wrestling Training and Talent Recruitment
- Explanation of the structured training process for aspiring wrestlers at the performance center in Orlando
- Insight into the modern approach of talent recruitment and grooming by wrestling promotions
- Expansion on the scouting efforts worldwide and the importance of developing new talent
Origin of The Undertaker Character
- Introduction of the giant egg mystery leading to the creation of The Undertaker character in 1990
- Discussion on the character inspiration from an old Western undertaker
- Details of how the role was offered to and accepted by the speaker
Risks and Impact in Wrestling
- Explanation of the trust and risks involved in wrestling performances
- Anecdote about an injury caused during a match leading to a broken orbital socket
- Insight into the toughness and dedication required in the wrestling industry
Physical Challenges and Injuries in Wrestling Career
- Description of severe injuries to eyes and face suffered during wrestling matches
- Discussion on surgeries required and unique materials used for reconstruction
- Effects of injuries on vision and physical performance in the ring
Medical Procedures and Career Adaptations
- Narrative of surgeries and treatments for shoulder injuries sustained in wrestling
- Impact of injuries on wrestling techniques and necessary adjustments in the ring
- Decision-making process regarding surgeries and the use of innovative medical techniques for recovery
Athletes' Physical Struggles and Resilience
- Discussion on athletes' physical challenges and injuries, such as not having certain shoulder muscles
- Examples of wrestlers like Stone Cold Steve Austin and Kurt Angle overcoming severe injuries to continue their careers
- Insight into the impact of injuries on athletes' body structure and muscles
Life on the Road and Competitive Challenges in Wrestling
- Insights into the demanding schedule of professional wrestling, with no off-season and continuous live TV performances
- Discussion on the competitive nature within wrestling to maintain one's position and spot on the card
- Personal anecdotes about the challenges wrestlers face, both physically and mentally, on the road
Wrestling Career Reflections and Transition from the Ring
- Undertaker reflects on his wrestling career and the struggle to accept the decline in skills and transitioning out of the ring.
- Discussions with Vince McMahon about knowing when to retire and the challenges of recognizing one's limitations.
- Physical limitations and realization of the end of his wrestling career, highlighted by his final match in April 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Exploring New Passions and Future Plans
- Undertaker's plans to explore new passions post-retirement like hunting and fishing, seeking to be an outdoorsman.
- Considering potential opportunities like television shows such as 'Undertaker Outdoors' while staying true to his enjoyment of the activity.
- Engagement with activities like mentoring and working with veterans, showcasing a passion for giving back to those who served.
David Goggins - The Unyielding Mindset
- Introduction to David Goggins, a maniac with a fascinating story of transformation from overweight to a determined warrior
- Discussion on how Goggins' content inspires discipline and determination in people
- Exploration of Goggins' relentless attitude towards challenges despite physical setbacks like knee issues
Cycles of Civilization and Hard Men
- Reflection on the current societal trends towards weakness and entitlement
- Comparison of historical cycles of civilization to the current chaotic state of affairs
- Appreciation for individuals like David Goggins and Tim Kennedy who embody discipline and resilience
Transition from Fighting to Commentary
- Discussion about fighters transitioning from fighting to other career paths like commentary and business
- Acknowledgment of the challenges and skills needed for being a commentator
- Anecdote about working with commentators like Daniel Cormier and the excitement during fights
Max Holloway's Remarkable Performance and MMA Influence
- Praise for Max Holloway's exceptional performance and fighting skills
- Recognition of Holloway's unique approach and movement in the ring
- Brief discussion on incorporating MMA elements in other arenas, like WWE
Brock Lesnar's Fight Challenges and Alistair Overeem's Physique
- Discussion on Brock Lesnar's health issues and challenges during fights
- Insight into Alistair Overeem's physical transformation and fighting techniques
- Anecdote about Alistair Overeem's physique and impact on fighting outcomes
Evolution of MMA and Wrestling, Stigmas, and David Arquette's Wrestling Career
- Reflections on the evolution of MMA from a stigmatized sport to mainstream entertainment
- Insights on the wrestling industry and changing attitudes towards professional wrestling
- Discussion on David Arquette's involvement in wrestling and challenges faced in the industry
A Tale of Dogs, Money, and Confrontation
- Narrative of encountering an old coach who owed $2,000 and left behind his dogs
- Discussion of a tense exchange with the former coach about the dogs and money
- Reflection on a potential violent encounter that was averted, leading to eventual resolution
DDP Yoga and Fitness Philosophy
- Introduction to Dallas Diamond Pages (DDP) Yoga and its impact on physical fitness
- Anecdotes about wrestlers benefiting from yoga, emphasizing flexibility and strength
- Discussing the positive influence of DDP and his dedication to helping others improve their health
Cardio Workout with Assault Bike and Training Partners Anecdote
- Discussion on Joe Rogan's intense workout routine involving the assault bike and its benefits as a cardio exercise
- Anecdote about training with a partner, Brian, who impressed with his weightlifting abilities and a gym mishap
- Detailing the physical demands of the workout for preparing for Elk Hunt X season and the impact on conditioning
Injuries in Wrestling and Unnoticed Neck Injury
- Personal account of sustaining a concussion during a wrestling match with Brock Lesnar and losing memory of the event
- Revelation of a previously unnoticed neck injury and the misinterpretation of a broken neck diagnosis
- Discussion on the interconnectedness of neck and shoulder pain in the context of wrestling and physical strain
Benefits and Experiences with Stem Cell Therapy
- Discussion about the benefits of stem cell therapy and personal experiences with it
- Mention of individuals going to Panama for stem cell treatment due to different regulations
- Positive impact of stem cell therapy on alleviating knee pain and improving mobility
Wrestling Industry Changes and Reflections on Past Eras
- Reflections on the wrestling industry changes, including the shift in product style
- Discussion on the merging of veteran talent with young stars and its impact on the industry
- Observations on efforts to restore edge and appeal to the wrestling product by Triple H
CM Punk's Transition to UFC Without Proper Background and Training
- Discussion on CM Punk's transition to UFC and concerns about his background and timing
- Importance of starting as an amateur and acquiring legitimate martial arts skills before jumping into UFC
- Observations on the specialized and competitive nature of MMA today compared to the early days
Excitement Around WWE Events and Potential Future Audience Attendance
- Conversation about WWE event locations for the next years and the excitement around WrestleMania
- Speculation about real audiences returning to events in 2022
- Reflections on the grand scale and success of WrestleMania as WWE's equivalent to the Super Bowl