JRE MMA Show #166 with Ilia Topuria

This episode explores the challenges and future of weight cutting in the UFC, as discussed between Joe Rogan and UFC fighter Ilia Topuria. Against the backdrop of Topuria's transition to the lightweight division due to the difficulties of weight cutting at featherweight, Rogan expresses his desire for the UFC to eliminate the practice altogether. More significantly, Topuria proposes a solution involving weight checks outside of fight day, suggesting fighters exceeding a certain percentage of their weight class should move up. The conversation then pivots to specific examples of fighters who dramatically cut weight, highlighting the deceptive nature of weight classes and the potential health risks involved. For instance, Rogan and Topuria discuss the extreme weight cuts of Islam Makhachev and Alex Pereira, emphasizing the negative impact on fighter performance and well-being. Finally, the discussion expands to broader topics, including the future of MMA, the potential for international team competitions, and the importance of mental fortitude in achieving success in the sport. This discussion reveals the ongoing debate surrounding weight cutting and its implications for fighter health and the overall integrity of the sport.