The Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show #139 – Bas Rutten & Joe Rogan
Bas Rutten
Bas Rutten is a Dutch-American actor, former mixed martial artist, kickboxer and professional wrestler. He was a UFC Heavyweight Champion, a three-time King of Pancrase world champion, and finished his career on a 22 fight unbeaten streak (21 wins, 1 draw). From 2007 to 2016, Rutten was the co-host of Inside MMA on AXS TV. Rutten became a naturalized American citizen receiving citizenship in the late 1990s.
Books Mentioned in JRE MMA Show #139 - Bas Rutten & Joe Rogan
Author: Mark Greaney
Book Title: Let’s Get It On! The Making of MMA and Its Ultimate Referee
Author: “Big” John McCarthy
Reflecting on the Start of Bas Rutten's Fighting Career
In an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Bas Rutten, a legendary mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter and former UFC Heavyweight Champion, reminisces about the early days of his fighting career, which began in 1993 around the same time as the inception of UFC.
An Introduction to Pedro Rizzo's Powerful Kicks
Rogan and Rutten discuss Pedro Rizzo, an MMA fighter renowned for his exceptionally powerful leg kicks. Rutten shares his firsthand experience of Rizzo’s formidable kicking strength, corroborating Rogan’s assertion that Rizzo’s kicks were some of the hardest he’s ever seen.
Revisiting Memorable UFC Fights and Fighters
The conversation then turns to memorable fights and fighters from UFC’s early years. Rogan and Rutten recall the ferocity of Chuck Liddell, a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion known for his aggressive fighting style and ability to withstand powerful blows. They also discuss other notable fighters like Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar, who helped popularize UFC through their performances on The Ultimate Fighter.
The Evolution of Fight Techniques and Training
Rutten and Rogan delve into the evolution of fight techniques, including the increasing popularity of low and calf kicks. They also discuss the controversial practice of fighters allowing themselves to be hit as part of promotional activities or training, highlighting the risks involved. Furthermore, they touch upon the influence of trainers like John Hackleman on fighters’ training regimens, acknowledging Hackleman’s pioneering approach to incorporating unconventional workouts.
The Impact of Wrestling on UFC
The conversation shifts to the significant impact of wrestling on UFC, highlighting how wrestling skills have proven advantageous in the octagon. They discuss fighters who used wrestling moves effectively in their fights, showcasing the fusion of diverse martial arts styles in UFC.
In conclusion, this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience provides a nostalgic look into the early days of UFC, showcasing memorable fights and fighters, discussing the evolution of fight techniques, and highlighting the influence of wrestling on MMA. The insights shared by Joe Rogan and Bas Rutten offer a valuable perspective on the history and evolution of UFC, making it a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.