JRE MMA Show #112 with Don Frye
NaN minutesEpisode #112
Joe sits down with mixed martial artist Don Frye: a UFC Hall of Famer, former pro wrestler, and co-host, along with Dan Severin, of "Dan and Don’s Toxic Masculinity Podcast."
Episode Timestamps
Meeting Don Fry, UFOs, and Steven Seagal's House
- Introduction to the podcast with Don Fry and discussion about past encounters
- Brief talk about UFOs and a house built for viewing them
- Mention of Steven Seagal's bulletproof house in Arizona
Transition to Firefighting and Wrestling Career
- Don Fry talks about his transition to firefighting and horseshoeing
- Discussion about wrestling injuries and challenges faced in the career
- Brief glimpse into Don Fry's job at a psychological facility
Early Days: From Firefighting to Warehouse Fights
- Introduction to Joe Rogan's early days when he joined the Bisbee Fire Department in 1994
- Transition into the world of fighting through judo leading to involvement in warehouse fights pre-UFC era
- Joe's initial encounters and discussions with Dan Severin to enter into the early MMA scene
Evolution of MMA and UFC: Wrestling Dominance and Impact of Gracie Family
- Discussion on the evolution of MMA towards recognizing wrestling as a crucial discipline for fighters
- Acknowledgment of the importance and impact of the Gracie family on the martial arts world, particularly Hoist Gracie's influence
- Reflections on the early UFC fights, challenges, and the emergence of MMA as a competitive sport
The Early UFC Days and Evolution of Rules
- Discussion about the impact of Bud Wiser's involvement on the legality of UFC events
- Anecdotes about the early UFC events and the surprising rules fighters had to abide by
- Mentions of event relocations and unexpected changes in fight locations like UFC 12 in Dothan, Alabama
Injuries, Surgeries, and the Future of Fighting
- Personal account of Don Fry's extensive back surgeries and related complications
- Conversation about stem cell treatments and potential for medical advancements in fighting injuries
- Exploration of weight cutting issues in MMA and the desire for healthier weight management strategies
Impacts of Weight Classes in UFC
- Discussion on the significance of weight classes in UFC and the separation by 20 pounds
- Suggestion for narrower weight class gaps like five or ten pounds for adjustability
- Exploration of creating more champion versus champion fights with diverse weight classes
Pro Wrestling Experience and Transition to Pride Fighting
- Narrative of Don Frye's transition from UFC to Pro Wrestling and later to Pride Fighting
- Injuries encountered in New Japan pro wrestling due to mismatch in wrestling styles
- Insights into the demanding nature of pro wrestling schedules and physical toll on fighters
Marvin Hagler's Legacy and Impact on Boxing
- Discussion on Marvin Hagler's career and fights with Ollie, Foreman, Frazier, Norton, and Holmes
- Exploration of Hagler's rise in boxing and his iconic bout with Thomas Hearns
- Reflection on Hagler's decision to retire at the peak of his career and transition into martial arts movies in Italy
Pride Fighting Championships and Issues with Doping Control
- Conversation about fighters in Pride FC not being tested for steroids
- Anecdotes about the lax doping controls in Pride FC compared to stricter measures in other organizations
- Discussion on the financial irregularities and controversies surrounding Pride FC, including accusations of Yakuza involvement
Professional Wrestling in Japan and Real Fights
- Discussion about real fights occurring in professional wrestling, especially in Japan
- Stories of wrestlers throwing actual haymakers and engaging in real fights without their opponents' knowledge
- Anecdotes about discerning real fights from staged fights, including personal experiences with Ken Shamrock and the Undertaker
Training and Fighting Challenges in MMA
- Reflections on the physical and psychological toll of fights and training in MMA
- Personal experiences of preparing for fights and the separation required from family and the world
- Insight into training regimen and conditioning, including anecdotes about training with Frank Shamrock and the Lions Den team
Injuries and Wrestling Journey
- Discussion about wrestling injuries and surgeries, including a broken neck
- Rehabilitation process and return to wrestling competitions
- Experience at Olympic qualifying tournaments and wrestling achievements
MMA Career and Pride Fighting Championships
- Transition into MMA and experiences in UFC fights
- Encounter with Tank Abbott and events leading to fighting in Japan
- Reflections on the Pride Fighting Championships and comparison with UFC business
Unconventional Journey in Fighting and Personal Challenges
- Discussion about the unconventional path Don Frye took in his fighting career
- Exploration of personal challenges, including pain, injuries, and substance abuse
- Insight into the struggles faced by fighters before and after their careers
Legacy and Evolution in Fighting: From Pioneering Days to Present
- Recognition of Don Frye's legacy as a pioneer in the sport of fighting
- Discussion on the evolution of fighting and the impact of past legends on the current landscape
- Reflection on the challenges faced post-career and the untold stories of fighters
Kevin Randleman's UFC Career and Struggles with Infections
- Discussion about Kevin Randleman's athletic prowess and memorable moments in UFC fights
- Description of severe staff infections Kevin Randleman suffered from and the impact on his health
- Personal experience with infections and surgeries shared by the speakers
Hospitalization and Recovery Challenges
- Narrative of medical negligence leading to hospitalization in an old folks home despite severe pain
- Struggle with infections in spinal cord, misdiagnosis, and eventual treatment
- Insight into personal life updates of the speakers and plans for future podcast recordings