JRE MMA Show #93 with Alexander Volkanovski

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Becoming the Champ - Journey to Victory

  • The champion discusses the transition to fame and recognition after becoming the UFC champion.
  • He reflects on the support he receives from his hometown in Australia, especially in Woollongong.
  • Training insights and lifestyle changes post-championship win, including the use of liquid IV for hydration.
• 00:01:53

  Underdog to Champion - Defeating the Featherweight Legend

  • Analysis of the significant victory over the greatest featherweight champion, reflecting on the underdog narrative.
  • Training details at City Kickboxing in New Zealand with Eugene Bearman, Brad Rodel, and Israel Adesanya.
  • Discussion on transition from rugby to MMA, highlighting the decision-making process and early wrestling career.
• 00:08:43

  Rugby and the Transition to MMA

  • Discussion about the physical demands and experiences of playing rugby.
  • Comparison between American football and rugby in terms of safety.
  • Transition from rugby to MMA due to passion for martial arts and individual competitiveness.
• 00:12:21

  Australian Influence on Combat Sports Athletes

  • Appreciation for Australian combat sports athletes like John Wayne Parr and Jeff Fenech.
  • Transition and interest in MMA due to exposure to combat sports like UFC.
  • Challenges and early losses in the MMA journey leading to eventual focus on grappling.
• 00:17:48

  McGregor's Journey to Featherweight Division

  • McGregor recalls winning a Jiu-Jitsu competition and the challenges of competing in a heavier division
  • Discusses his weight drop journey from 214 pounds to 155 pounds for the featherweight division
  • Shares the struggles with dieting, muscle loss, and health issues due to extreme weight cuts
• 00:19:38

  The Hardships of Extreme Weight Cuts

  • Reveals the health complications faced after fights, including serious staff infections leading to hospitalization
  • Discusses the impact of weight loss on muscle strength and overall health
  • Reflects on the rollercoaster of highs and lows in MMA, dealing with both victories and health scares
• 00:26:57

  Spearfishing Adventure with Jack Levin

  • Joined a mate, Jack Levin, on a spearfishing adventure in the middle of the ocean
  • Experienced hunting underwater while holding breath for a long time
  • Watched Jack Levin, who can hold his breath for a long duration, catch wild fish
• 00:28:34

  Professional Spearfisher Valentine Thomas's Journey

  • Valentine Thomas shifted from being a lawyer to a professional spearfisher
  • Dedicates her Instagram to catching wild fish and shares her adventures
  • Impressed by her hunting skills and dedication to spearfishing
• 00:36:06

  Discussion on Fights: Jay Park, Brian Ortega, Calvin Cater, Jeremy Stevens, and Zabit vs. Ortega

  • Mentions of a confrontation with Jay Park and the consequences of smacking a smaller individual
  • Reference to the fighters Brian Ortega, Calvin Cater, Jeremy Stevens, Zabit, and discussions on potential matchups
  • Importance of respecting professionalism and not rewarding aggressive behavior
• 00:37:55

  Fight Strategy and Team Training Dynamics

  • Description of fight style focused on leg kicks and power punches
  • Training intensity and adherence to a specific workout regimen named 'Spider' for fighter conditioning
  • Discussion on anticipating opponent adjustments and adapting during the fight
• 00:45:04

  MMA Fight Analysis: Izzy vs. Yoel Romero

  • Izzy trying to engage but Romero reluctant to engage, opting to stand still
  • Comparison to other fights where strategic approach is necessary rather than all-out action
  • Discussion on smart fighting strategies and adapting to opponents' styles
• 00:46:52

  Physical and Mental Preparation in MMA

  • Importance of dealing with uncomfortable situations in training and fights
  • Value of being mentally prepared and training in challenging scenarios
  • The significance of mental strength in combat sports like MMA
• 00:54:21

  Personal Insights and Mindset in Championship Fights

  • The importance of staying composed and level-headed in all situations, especially during fights
  • Reflection on winning a world title and maintaining a calm demeanor
  • Discussion on the benefits of having a relaxed mindset and sticking to a game plan
• 00:56:10

  Wild Game Hunting and Conservation Efforts

  • Conversation about hunting wild game and it being a part of the diet
  • Insights on elk meat and experiences with hunting in different states
  • Discussion on conservation efforts to protect elk and other animals like wolves and grizzlies
• 01:04:33

  Invasive Wildlife in Australia

  • Introduction of invasive wildlife like deer in Australia for hunting habitats
  • Overpopulation of deer, causing issues along the coast and mountains
  • Impact of invasive predators like wild cats on native wildlife
• 01:06:22

  Australia's Battle Against Feral Cats

  • Devastation caused by feral cats on ground nesting birds and wildlife
  • Efforts to eliminate feral cats, including aerial poison distribution
  • High number of birds and mammals killed annually by cats in Australia and the United States
• 01:15:20

  Cane Toads in Australia: A Poisonous Invasion

  • Introduction to the issue of cane toads in Australia, known for their toxic and poisonous nature
  • Discussions on the impact of cane toads on native animals and predators
  • Methods and challenges in controlling the population of cane toads, including the ban on certain inhumane practices
• 01:16:56

  Fight Week and Weight Cutting in Professional Training

  • Insights into the dietary and weight-cutting practices of a professional fighter during the fight week
  • Discussion on the role of a dietitian and the changes in meal plans for enhanced performance
  • Details about the science and process involved in cutting weight prior to a fight, including water weight management
• 01:25:39

  Discussion with Coach 'Joe' about Training and Peak Performance

  • Athlete discusses the importance of having a dedicated coach like Joe who understands his needs and limits
  • Joe played a crucial role in preventing overtraining and potential injuries before a fight
  • Training adjustments made by Joe led to enhanced performance and successful peak training
• 01:27:22

  Recovery from Back Injury with 'Bay Med Performance'

  • Athlete suffered from a bulging disc causing severe back issues
  • Collaboration with 'Bay Med Performance' introduced specialized strength program tailored for fighting
  • Introduction of unique equipment like 'Teeter Dex' and 'Reverse Hyper' revolutionized training and recovery process
• 01:34:08

  Alex Vulcanowski's Transformation Journey with Chabendez

  • Received specialized training for hip and glute issues from Chabendez
  • Focused on deadlifts, glute strengthening, and core exercises
  • Improved mobility and muscle activation through structured 12-week camp
• 01:35:39

  Training and Endurance Science in MMA with Alex Vulcanowski

  • Structured training with focus on endurance and heart rate variability
  • Incorporated scientific approach to conditioning and recovery monitoring
  • Balanced approach to sparring with emphasis on technical learning