In this edition of a show, host Joe Rogan is joined in candid discussion about the development of mixed martial arts regulations by UFC veteran Royce Gracie. As they talk about what could preserve the UFC and reminisce about its early years, their chat sometimes deviates into absurdity.
Royce Gracie appeared on Rogan’s podcast for the first time, sharing his unique perspective on the changes in the sport. He and Rogan studied in the early 1990s, when the UFC was in the past and unregulated compared to today’s standards. Gracie expressed his desire to bring back some of the old rules, which led to the feud with Rogan. Hand-to-hand combat: a controversial concept
Known for his strong opinions, Rogan asked Gracie, “Do you think the fight should be fought with bare hands?” Gracie agreed without hesitation, saying that the experiment might be interesting. “I think you should go back to your old ways. Try,” Gracie replied. Intrigued by the idea, Rogen agreed, saying, “One big thing.”
Beyond Simple Things: A Call for Radical Change
Gracie didn’t end the fight with her bare hands. He proposed more radical reforms, arguing for erasure and redistribution of burdens. “There’s no time, there’s no weight division,” he said, adding that the surprise of early UFC fights will return. Rogan agreed in part, expressing support for the idea of no word limit but remaining skeptical of eliminating weight sharing. “I didn’t know about the weight limit. Everybody’s fine now,” Rogan said.
The Case Has No Weight Limit
Gracie, the UFC’s first champion, believed that if there was no weight limit, and if there was no time, fighters in the lighter weight divisions could compete directly with heavier opponents. He says boxers often lose weight before a fight. “There’s some heavyweights here, man. 170s, 180s. They’ll always fight with the heavyweights,” Gracie said, emphasizing his belief that skill can overcome the weight difference.
Rogan’s Advice to Fellow MMA Fighters
Rogan took the opportunity to give advice to Dana White’s fans in the MMA industry. He said other promotions could try to make these old rules different from the UFC. “Why don’t people do this?” he pondered. “The UFC isn’t going to change the rules anytime soon. After all, the UFC is the first organization in MMA. Rogan’s support for the idea shows his belief in the retro trend.
The Issue of MMA Rules
The discussion revealed the major changes MMA has undergone since its inception. Former UFC events had few rules, no weight classes, and no time limits, creating a wild and unpredictable spectacle. Over time, the sport passed laws to improve safety and rule of law, enhanced by sports commissions, and increased its international appeal.
Gracie’s Influence on Modern MMA
Royce Gracie’s dominance in the first UFC events showed the effectiveness of BJJ and played a major role in the creation of the new MMA. His victory showed that tactics and strategies can overcome violence, and that there is more emphasis on equality and giving in the sport.
The Future of MMA Rules
While most of Rogan and Gracie’s comments are false, it raises important questions about the future of MMA rules. As the sport evolves, there may be room for innovation and experimentation. The idea of reintroducing old school elements, however tempting, can provide a new and exciting aspect to the MMA game.
Joe Rogan and Royce Gracie discuss in the podcast a look at the history and future of MMA. Their critical thinking about the UFC’s past, along with their bold demands for rule changes, sparked controversy over the sport’s evolution. Whether or not these ideas hold sway, they serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of MMA and its ability to engage audiences in an ever-changing landscape.
