JRE MMA Show #89 with Rafael Lovato Jr.

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Bellatora Middleweight Title Fight Victory Against Gegard Musasi

  • Achieved victory against Gegard Musasi to win the Bellatora middleweight title.
  • Story behind the fight victory takes an unexpected turn due to health concerns.
  • Diagnosed with a brain condition called cavernoma, raising questions about the future of fighting.
• 00:01:58

  Health Crisis in the Midst of Training for the Upcoming Fight

  • Discovery of cavernoma disease leads to uncertainty about health and ability to continue training.
  • Struggle with emotional turmoil and uncertainty while training in Brazil for the fight.
  • Seeking opinions from multiple doctors, with initial discouraging prognosis regarding fighting.
• 00:13:50

  Medical Dilemma Discussed by Various Doctors

  • Accumulation found on the outer rim of the brain raising concerns about safety
  • Multiple doctors advising against dangerous activities like jujitsu due to health risks
  • Emotional turmoil faced during a crucial training camp for a title fight
• 00:15:39

  Hope Found with Neurospecialist in Brazil

  • Encounter with a highly regarded neurospecialist who provides reassurance and support
  • Discovery that head impact may not directly increase the risk of cavernoma bleeding
  • Receiving a crucial letter from the doctor leading to renewed hope and approval process
• 00:26:53

  Struggles with Injury and Uncertainty - The Fight to Get Approved

  • Dealing with a hamstring injury while waiting for approval to fight
  • Reaching out to Yanni from the commission with safe MMA for updates
  • Receiving approval two weeks before the fight after facing physical and emotional challenges
• 00:32:28

  Overcoming Adversity and Finding Strength - Preparing for the Fight

  • Facing setback a week before the fight with a hamstring injury
  • Seeking support from yoga and team members for emotional and physical recovery
  • Drawing inspiration from 'Thinking Grow Rich' and finding inner strength for the fight
• 00:40:06

  Fight for the Belt and Facing Musassi - A Fighter's Destiny

  • Dream to fight for the belt and face a legendary fighter like Musassi
  • Emotional journey with thoughts about health, family, and legacy
  • Preparation and determination to give it all in the fight
• 00:46:26

  Post-Fight React: Accusations and Controversy

  • Respectful pre-fight and post-fight interactions turn into accusations
  • Uncharacteristic behavior from the opponent after the fight
  • Controversy around accusations of steroid use and disrespectful comments from opponent's camp
• 00:53:22

  Meeting with Dr. Healy and Decision Making Process

  • Discussions about scans and rare disease cavernoma
  • Necessity to make decisions about continuing fighting
  • Consultation with neurologist and recommendation to see specialist
• 00:55:07

  Visit to Neurosurgeon Dr. Wong at UCLA

  • Consultation with Dr. Wong regarding cavernoma and surgery
  • Dr. Wong's recommendation to postpone surgery until symptoms
  • Positive outlook on fighting and support from Bellator organization
• 01:06:10

  Facing the Career Ending Health Issue at 36

  • Facing an uncertain future due to low-risk surgery but career-ending implications
  • Consulting specialists with conflicting opinions on the safety of continuing
  • Hopeful about seeking more opinions and potential approval for future fights
• 01:07:43

  Navigating Uncertainties Towards Competition

  • Exploring approval options across different states with varying regulations
  • Continuing to gather information and opinions from doctors and commissions
  • Balancing training and competition with health concerns and uncertainties
• 01:17:34

  Gamma Knife Treatment at the Mayo Clinic

  • Discussion about gamma knife treatment for brain stereotactic radio surgery at the Mayo Clinic.
  • Description of how the treatment works with radiation targeting the head.
  • Personal reflections on the intensity and discomfort of the treatment process.
• 01:19:23

  Cavernoma Diagnosis and Treatment Options

  • Exploration of the diagnosis of cavernoma and various treatment options available.
  • Personal insight into the impact of the condition and the visual representation of brain scans.
  • Discussion about the need for regular evaluations and uncertainties surrounding the condition.
• 01:30:05

  Beto Shi Shi's Journey to Becoming MMA World Champion

  • Beto Shi Shi expresses deep gratitude towards his loved ones for supporting him throughout his journey.
  • He credits his coach Mauricio for being instrumental in his success and aiming to become a world champion under him.
  • Beto Shi Shi reflects on defeating Gegard Mousasi, one of the toughest competitors in Belator, and the significance of this victory in his career.
• 01:32:01

  Facing Uncertainty and Seeking Health Advice in MMA Career

  • Beto Shi Shi shares his uncertainties about continuing his fighting career due to health concerns.
  • He discusses the pivotal moment of fighting in London due to a missed diagnosis and the emotional support from his loved ones.
  • Beto Shi Shi talks about discussions with Bellator officials regarding his future, including the possibility of stepping down and considering a new title fight.