The Joe Rogan Experience
The Joe Rogan Experience

JRE MMA Show #171 with Brendan Allen

December 09, 2025 • 2h 57m

Summary

⏱️ 8 min read

Overview

UFC middleweight contender Brendan Allen joins Joe Rogan to discuss his fighting career, training philosophy, and upcoming title aspirations. The conversation covers the evolution of MMA, memorable fights, training camps, weight cutting challenges, mental preparation, and the technical aspects of becoming an elite fighter. Allen shares personal stories about his journey from a 13-year-old jiu-jitsu beginner to knocking on the door of a UFC title shot.

Trump's White House UFC Event Plans

The episode opens with discussion of Donald Trump's announcement of a massive UFC event planned for the White House in June. Trump claims there will be 8-9 championship fights, which raises logistical questions since there are only 8 weight classes. The conversation explores the challenges of holding an outdoor fight in potentially hot, humid Washington D.C. weather and the security complications of such an unprecedented event.

  • Trump announced 8-9 title fights planned for White House UFC event on June 14th
  • Only 8 weight classes exist in UFC, making 9 title fights mathematically questionable
  • Event planned for 5,000-6,000 seats at White House with 100,000 people watching on screens
  • Jon Jones fighting at the White House would be essential for the event
" If they don't do Jon Jones at the White House, I think it would be a travesty. They need to do that. They have to. Come on. "

Outdoor Fighting Challenges and Historical Precedents

The discussion shifts to the practical challenges of outdoor MMA fights, including weather conditions, temperature, and how these factors affect fighter performance. Allen and Rogan explore historical examples of outdoor combat sports events, including boxing matches at Caesar's Palace and a notorious King of the Cage event that took place in the rain, highlighting the dangerous conditions fighters have faced.

  • UFC has held outdoor fights before, including in Abu Dhabi where Anderson Silva fought Damian Maia
  • King of the Cage held 'Wet and Wild' event where fighters competed in pouring rain
  • Caesar's Palace historically hosted major outdoor boxing matches
  • Weather conditions like heat and humidity significantly impact fighter performance
" What happens if it rains? What if it's hot? What if it's hot and muggy? That's going to affect people. "

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