JRE MMA Show #23 with Alexander Gustafsson

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Alusanna Gustafson's Shoulder Surgery and Comeback Journey

  • Alusanna Gustafson discusses recovering from a severe shoulder injury sustained during wrestling practice.
  • He underwent surgery involving the placement of a plate and screws to repair torn ligaments.
  • Despite the injury being a setback, Gustafson remains motivated, viewing it as an opportunity for self-improvement.
• 00:08:00

  Alex Reflects on Epic Battles Against Glover Teixeira and John Jones

  • Alex discusses his impressive performance in the fight against Glover Teixeira, feeling he was at his peak.
  • He highlights the close and intense fight against John Jones, describing it as a significant career moment despite not winning the title.
  • Alex expresses admiration for John Jones, acknowledging the challenge he poses as one of the greatest fighters.
• 00:10:15

  DC's Rise and Challenges: The Heavyweight Title Drama

  • Discussion of Daniel Cormier's (DC) impressive career as a top fighter and speculation around his performance against Stipe Miocic.
  • The impact of Jon Jones' suspension on the light heavyweight division, leaving fighters in limbo.
  • Highlighting DC's wrestling skills and how his food choices may affect his performance.
• 00:18:40

  The Nutritional Edge: Exploring Wild Game with a Pro Fighter

  • Emphasis on the benefits of consuming wild game meat versus store-bought meats.
  • Insights into the hunting lifestyle and how it contributes to the athlete's performance and well-being.
  • Comparison of nutrient density in wild game versus farmed animals and the invigorating effects of consuming natural proteins.
• 00:20:33

  Martial Arts and Hunting: The Dual Life of Swedish Fighter Phil Davis

  • Phil Davis discusses his hunting experiences since childhood, emphasizing his transition back to the sport in 2012.
  • Hunting regulations in Sweden only allow the use of rifles, contrasting with bow hunting practices in Spain.
  • Davis shares insights on wild pig hunting in Texas, highlighting the challenges posed by the rapidly reproducing pig population.
• 00:24:02

  From Opposition to Alliance: Phil Davis's Journey in MMA Training

  • Phil Davis reflects on his initial training partnership following a fight, which led to deeper collaboration with other fighters.
  • Davis describes the rigorous training environment at All Stars gym in Sweden, where he trains with top talents including Eli Latifi and Jimmy Manuwa.
  • The emergence of Eastern European fighters, particularly from the former Soviet Union, has raised the competition level and training standards in MMA.
• 00:29:19

  Pioneering European Mixed Martial Arts: Streets to Success with Andreas Michael

  • The evolution of MMA is discussed, highlighting its rapid growth and popularity worldwide in the last decade.
  • Andreas Michael is recognized for his pioneering coaching style, blending traditional and scientific training methods for fighters.
  • The importance of having knowledgeable coaches like Andreas and Eric Del Fiero, who prioritize fighter development over personal glory.
• 00:36:00

  Training Regimens and Challenges: Overcoming Injuries with Expert Coaching

  • The training structure includes group workouts and individualized sessions focused on various fighting disciplines.
  • Injury management is explored, with the fighter discussing his struggle with tendonitis and recovery processes.
  • The significance of a supportive training team, including specialized coaches for Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is emphasized.
• 00:38:58

  Jon Jones Discusses Injury Recovery and Training Regimen Post Elbow Injury

  • Jon Jones shares his elbow injury rehabilitation process, which includes specific twisting exercises.
  • He describes his training history, starting martial arts at the age of 18 and mentions his boxing experience.
  • Jones emphasizes the importance of flexibility in MMA, contrasting his flexibility struggles with fighters like Phil Davis.
• 00:46:37

  Jon Jones Reflects on Career Setbacks and His Determination to Regain the Championship

  • Jones recounts the emotional aftermath of his loss to Anthony Johnson and his determination to learn from past defeats.
  • He feels motivated to continue in MMA, citing flexibility in his schedule and family time as key factors.
  • Jones expresses confidence in his ability to reclaim the title and defeat rivals like Jon Jones.
• 00:47:47

  The Comeback Motivation: Fighter's Perspective on Anthony Johnson and Daniel Cormier

  • The fighter expresses readiness to face John Jones and Daniel Cormier, despite recent inactivity due to injury.
  • Reflects on a tough loss against Anthony 'Rumble' Johnson at a major event in Stockholm, emphasizing the challenge of the fight.
  • Comments on Anthony Johnson's evolution from 170 lbs to a heavyweight and his defining moments in the octagon.
• 00:53:19

  The Quest for Redemption: Strategies against Daniel Cormier and the Importance of Top Fights

  • Discusses the critical mistakes made in previous fights against Daniel Cormier and the need for strategic adjustments.
  • Highlights the uncertainty in the light heavyweight division and the potential for fights against top competitors.
  • Expresses a strong desire to compete against John Jones, suggesting a willingness to step into boxing if necessary.
• 00:56:26

  Colby Covington's Controversial Remarks and Rafael Dos Anjos' Fight Preparations

  • Colby Covington makes headlines discussing John Jones, revealing tension in the MMA community.
  • Covington is preparing to fight Rafael Dos Anjos, with concerns about facing him in Brazil due to past comments.
  • The shift of their fight location to Chicago is seen as a relief for Covington amid the dangerous Brazilian fanbase.
• 00:59:35

  Conor McGregor's Infamous Bus Incident and Its Fallout

  • Conor McGregor's actions, throwing a dolly at a bus, resulted in multiple fights being pulled from an upcoming card.
  • The podcast discusses potential lawsuits from affected fighters, including Michael Chiesa, raising concerns about McGregor's behavior.
  • The impact of McGregor's actions on his legacy and career is debated, emphasizing the need to return focus to fighting rather than controversy.
• 01:05:00

  Connor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov: A Clash of Styles and Mentalities

  • Discussion around Connor McGregor's striking precision and speed compared to Khabib Nurmagomedov's unmatched wrestling prowess.
  • Insight into Khabib's training regimen, with mention of him never losing a round in sparring, emphasizing his dominance.
  • Exploration of the Dagestani wrestling culture and how it serves as a path toward success for athletes in the region.
• 01:56:12

  Zabit Magomed Sharapov: The Rising Star from Dagestan

  • Overview of Zabit Magomed Sharapov's fighting style and exceptional performance against Kyle Bakniak.
  • Analysis of Zabit's striking technique, footwork, and ability to maintain balance and position during fights.
  • Contrast drawn between Zabit's background in Wushu and his effectiveness as a mixed martial artist in the UFC.
• 01:13:47

  Alexander Gustafsson Discusses Training Evolution and UFC Future

  • Alexander Gustafsson reflects on his training regimen and how he understands his body's needs better than in the past.
  • He emphasizes the importance of meaningful fights and is waiting for a significant opportunity from the UFC.
  • Gustafsson mentions his readiness to compete, highlighting the potential fights against DC and John Jones.
• 01:56:12

  The Future Landscape of UFC Light Heavyweight Division: Gustafsson's Insights

  • Gustafsson shares his views on the UFC light heavyweight division and the significance of his potential matchups.
  • He insists that his next fight must feel right and be meaningful for his career trajectory.
  • The conversation highlights the uncertainty of future bouts, particularly with the suspended John Jones and current titleholder DC.