Why Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson Left the UFC

Summary

In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, the discussion revolves around the diverse and dynamic landscape of One Championship (ONE FC), which hosts a variety of martial arts disciplines including grappling, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and boxing. The guest, a former UFC fighter, shares his experience transitioning to ONE FC after a close and controversial loss, exploring the opportunity to compete in different styles. The conversation also touches on the potential trade between UFC and ONE FC involving fighters like Demetrius Johnson and Ben Askren, with Joe Rogan expressing his enthusiasm for such exchanges to foster more competition and variety in the martial arts world.

Takeaways

• 🥊 One Championship is known for its diverse range of martial arts disciplines, including grappling, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and boxing matches.
• 🤼‍♂️ The speaker mentions Mikey Musumechi, Gary Tonon, and the Rotolo Brothers as examples of fighters competing in One Championship, showcasing the variety of talent.
• 👊 The speaker had an opportunity to compete in One Championship and was excited about the prospect of doing something different after a close loss in the UFC.
• 🔄 The decision to leave the UFC was influenced by the desire to explore new opportunities and avoid being stuck in the same situation after a controversial loss to Henry Cejudo.
• 🤝 There was a potential trade discussed between One Championship and UFC involving Ben Askren and Demetrius Johnson, which was ultimately not approved by Dana White.
• 🗣️ Joe Rogan was rumored to have played a role in convincing Ben Askren to join the UFC, but the speaker clarifies that this is not entirely accurate and that Rogan was trying to bring Askren in during his prime.
• 🏆 Ben Askren was admired for his wrestling skills and his ability to impose his style on opponents, even those who were considered 'murderers' in the fighting world.
• 🔄 The speaker discusses the strategic considerations behind trading fighters between organizations, emphasizing the importance of active and competitive fighters.
• 🤔 The speaker expresses a lack of personal influence over the decision-making process, leaving it to higher-ups and management to negotiate and finalize such trades.
• 🎉 There is a general excitement about the prospect of fighters like Ben Askren and Eddie Alvarez moving between organizations, as it is good for competition and the growth of the sport.
• 🌐 The conversation highlights the importance of having multiple events and organizations in the world of martial arts to foster a healthy competitive environment.

Q & A

What is unique about ONE Championship's approach to mixed martial arts events?

ONE Championship is unique in its approach to mixed martial arts as it mixes various styles of combat sports, including grappling matches, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and even boxing matches for WBC titles, offering a diverse range of events for fans and fighters alike.

Who are some of the fighters mentioned in the script that have competed in ONE Championship?

The fighters mentioned in the script who have competed in ONE Championship include Mikey Musumechi, Gary Tonon, and the Rotolo Brothers.

What was the context behind the decision to leave the UFC for ONE Championship?

The decision to leave the UFC for ONE Championship came after a close and controversial loss to Henry Cejudo. The fighter felt that relying too much on leg kicks and not being able to impose his style on the feet led to the loss, and exploring other options seemed like a good opportunity.

How did the fighter's management approach the situation after the loss to Henry Cejudo?

The fighter's management, including Naki Maki, was supportive and open to exploring different options. They encouraged the fighter to express his desires and worked to figure out the best course of action.

What were the potential outcomes if the fighter had a third fight with Henry Cejudo?

The potential outcomes of a third fight with Henry Cejudo were either beating Henry and still being stuck in the same situation, or losing and being in the same position of having lost to him again.

What role did Joe Rogan play in the transition from UFC to ONE Championship?

Joe Rogan was trying to facilitate the return of Ben Askren to the UFC when he was in his prime with Bellator. However, the rumor that Joe Rogan played a significant role in convincing the fighter to move to ONE Championship is not accurate according to the script.

What was the proposed trade between ONE Championship and UFC involving Ben Askren and Demetrius Johnson?

The proposed trade involved ONE Championship offering Ben Askren in exchange for Demetrius Johnson from the UFC. However, it was mentioned that Dana White was not interested in making that trade happen.

Why did the UFC eventually agree to the trade?

The UFC agreed to the trade because Demetrius Johnson was still active and a valuable asset to the organization, whereas Ben Askren was already retired and needed a hip replacement.

What is the current state of the Flyweight division in the UFC?

The Flyweight division in the UFC has risen with many interesting contenders, including names like Davidson Figueredo and Brandon Moreno, making it an exciting division to watch.

What is the general sentiment towards more competition and events in the world of mixed martial arts?

The general sentiment is that more events and competition are good for the sport of mixed martial arts, as it fosters growth, diversity, and excitement for both fighters and fans.

How does the fighter describe his fighting style and mentality?

The fighter describes himself as a 'Workhorse,' emphasizing that he is paid to fight and will do so to the best of his ability, regardless of the circumstances.

Outlines

00:00

🥋 The Dynamic World of ONE Championship

Joe Rogan discusses the unique and diverse nature of ONE Championship, highlighting its inclusion of various combat sports like grappling, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. He mentions fighters like Mikey Musumeci, Gary Tonon, and the Rotolo Brothers, emphasizing the excitement of ONE's mixed-format events. The conversation also touches on Joe's own experience leaving UFC after a controversial loss to Henry Cejudo, the strategic decisions behind this move, and the subsequent trade involving Ben Askren and Demetrius Johnson.

05:01

🤝 The Impact and Future of Fighter Trades

The discussion continues with the impact of the trade between UFC and ONE Championship. Joe Rogan and his guest delve into the reasoning behind the trade, noting that Demetrius Johnson was still an active and valuable fighter. They reflect on the Flyweight division's rise and the exciting potential matchups Joe could have had in the UFC. The segment concludes with a reflection on the benefits of more competition in the MMA world and the positive developments in ONE Championship.

Keywords

💡ONE Championship

ONE Championship, also known as ONE FC, is a mixed martial arts (MMA) organization based in Singapore. It is the largest global MMA organization in Asia and has gained popularity for its diverse range of martial arts disciplines. In the script, it is mentioned as an organization that is 'mixing everything up' with various types of matches, indicating its commitment to showcasing a wide array of fighting styles and promoting martial arts culture.

💡Grappling

Grappling refers to a type of martial arts combat that focuses on clinching and wrestling techniques. It is a key component in many martial arts styles, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. In the context of the video, grappling is mentioned as one of the types of matches that ONE Championship hosts, highlighting the organization's diversity in martial arts disciplines.

💡Mikey Musumeci

Mikey Musumeci is a professional mixed martial artist who competes in the flyweight division. He is known for his grappling skills and has competed in various organizations, including ONE Championship. In the script, Musumeci is mentioned as an example of the diverse fighters that ONE Championship attracts and features in their events.

💡Muay Thai

Muay Thai, also known as 'The Art of Eight Limbs,' is a martial art and combat sport from Thailand that emphasizes strikes using fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It is a popular discipline within the MMA world. The script mentions Muay Thai matches being held by ONE Championship, showcasing the organization's commitment to traditional martial arts forms.

💡Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a group of stand-up combat sports based on kicking and punching, often with fighters wearing boxing gloves. It is a martial art that has influenced many MMA fighters' striking styles. The script refers to kickboxing matches being organized by ONE Championship, indicating the organization's inclusion of various martial arts disciplines in their events.

💡Boxing

Boxing is a martial art and combat sport in which two participants throw punches at each other with the goal of winning matches through points or knockouts. In the script, it is mentioned that ONE Championship held a boxing match for a WBC Title, demonstrating the organization's interest in traditional boxing as well as MMA.

💡UFC

The UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship, is a leading global MMA organization based in the United States. It is known for hosting high-profile MMA events and has been a significant platform for many fighters. The script discusses a fighter's decision to leave the UFC and join ONE Championship, indicating the changing landscape of MMA and fighters' opportunities.

💡Controversial Loss

A controversial loss in MMA refers to a situation where a fighter loses a match, but there is significant debate or disagreement about the decision. In the script, a fighter reflects on a close and controversial loss to Henry Sahota, which influenced his decision to explore new opportunities outside the UFC.

💡Trade

In the context of sports, a trade refers to the exchange of athletes between teams or organizations. The script discusses a potential trade between ONE Championship and the UFC involving fighters Ben Askren and Demetrius Johnson, illustrating the business aspect of MMA and how fighters' careers can be influenced by such negotiations.

💡Ben Askren

Ben Askren is a retired American mixed martial artist and former Bellator and ONE Championship Welterweight Champion. Known for his wrestling skills and unique style, Askren has been a dominant figure in the welterweight division. The script mentions Joe Rogan's interest in bringing Askren to the UFC, highlighting the fighter's reputation and the strategic moves in MMA organizations.

💡Demetrius Johnson

Demetrius Johnson is a professional mixed martial artist and former UFC Flyweight Champion. He is known for his exceptional striking and grappling skills. The script refers to Johnson as a potential trade asset, indicating his value and the strategic considerations in MMA organization management.

Highlights

ONE Championship's diverse approach to martial arts, including grappling, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and boxing matches.

Mikey Musumeci and Gary Tonon competing in ONE Championship.

Rotolo Brothers participating in unique and wild matches.

ONE Championship hosting a WBC Title boxing match with boxing gloves.

Discussion of a close and controversial loss to Henry Cejudo in the UFC.

Strategic reliance on leg kicks during the fight with Cejudo.

The fighter's consideration of exploring other options outside the UFC.

Potential rematch with Cejudo and its implications for the fighter's career.

Ben Askren's unique wrestling style and its effectiveness against top fighters.

Askren's style described as 'weird' and difficult for opponents to counter.

Joe Rogan's interest in bringing Ben Askren to the UFC during his prime.

The trade discussions between ONE Championship and UFC involving Ben Askren and Demetrius Johnson.

Dana White's reluctance to make the trade happen.

The fighter's perspective on being a 'workhorse' and willingness to fight.

Excitement for the fighter's move to ONE Championship and potential matchups.

The rise of the Flyweight division in the UFC with contenders like David Fitch, Figueiredo, and Moreno.

The importance of more events and competition for the growth of martial arts.

Transcripts

The Joe Rogan Experience so this uh Rod

tank fight one of the things that's very

interesting about one FC is how they're

just really mixing everything up they've

got grappling matches you know Mikey

musumechi's over there competing Gary

tonan the Rotolo Brothers it's like it's

very wild what they're doing they're

having Muay Thai matches kickboxing

matches that without one boxing match um

which was for a WBC Title so oh yeah it

was um I believe boxing gloves boxing

gloves full blown boxing like it was a

world uh World title fight

um that's one of the things I love about

one Championship is that they're mixing

it up right so when I got the

opportunity to go over there and compete

like I knew I had the opportunity to do

something fun like I did with raw teen

right now was it difficult to make that

decision to leave the UFC because you

you were you know coming off of a very

close controversial loss to Henry sahuda

very close fight yeah you know it was

like mostly the wrestlings a couple

takedowns that he got yeah it was a

couple takedowns and I think I relied

too much on lay kicks like I like and

that fight I couldn't get him down to

the ground

um the schreiken scene on the feet like

with the hands it seemed like it was

pretty even I was I think I outlanded

him like when you look at the strike

strike copy block strike numbers but I

felt like I relied too much on the lay

kicks because I was I was [ __ ]

tearing those legs up well you hurt his

leg real bad in that first round yes he

got that drop foot thing going on yeah

he had to drop things going on but I was

like I couldn't get there with the hands

right I couldn't knock on the hand so I

was like you know I'm gonna tell you I'm

gonna take your material leg up kept on

tearing the leg up and when the fight

ended and I was like ah he probably got

it I was like he he beat me and then

they read the score card and I was like

huh it is what it is like what are you

gonna do so what was the decision after

that like what was that like so it was

frustrating

um but then you know at the time I was

like I wonder if I can do something

different right because I was going in

the back and at the time Naki Maki was

in uh managing me he still is uh

professional managing is and I was like

he said you tell me what you want to do

bro you know just let me know and we'll

figure it out and I was like I wonder if

I get on my contract I was like you know

try to do something different because at

the time

I looked at it this way if I were to

fight himachudo again for the third time

it couldn't go either two ways one I

beat Henry then I'm still stuck in the

same situation I am right now when at

the time they're trying to get rid of

they're in talks about getting rid of

the fight with division right or two if

I lose to Henry then I'm still stuck in

the same position I just lost him again

so why not see if I can go explore other

options right and then that's when the

trick talks came about and so the UFC

just said fine go ahead well there was

more to it right I mean

obviously um you know Chacha just you

know talked about it it was uh I heard

you had something to do with it as well

like yeah I did yeah yeah well um I'll

get to that point so obviously

um you know they wouldn't been asking

has been one of the fight in UFC for a

long time right and then so one

championship and UFC were talking back

and forth between Hunter and Matt Hume

and Maki sir like hey let's do a trade

right like we'll give you been asking

for Demetrius Johnson and then at one

point I heard that you know Dana was

like nah I don't I don't I don't want to

make that happen right I don't know the

fool I'm not in the rumor all the puzzle

pieces are being shifted and then I was

hanging out somewhere and then somebody

said you know Joe Rogan had a PC now and

I was like really he goes yeah and I was

told that you kind of convinced it I'm

like who gets a [ __ ] like just get get

been asking or something like that so

yeah I know right so that's not really

accurate No I definitely was trying to

get them to get Ben asked him but I was

trying to get them to get Ben askren

back when he was a Bellator when he was

in his prime yeah you know I was like

listen man this guy is wrestle [ __ ]

everybody I want to see if he could do

that to the whole division like when

when Ben was in his prime when he did

that the car scoff we did that to uh

Douglas Lima I was like you gotta

understand how crazy this is that this

guy can do this to everybody yeah and

people say oh it's boring it's boring

it's fighting Yep this guy is you

imposing his style on these murderers

yeah I mean korzkopf was a murderer and

Douglas Lima is a [ __ ] Savage and he

was just ragged on these dudes and doing

it weird ways I remember he he has a

funky style about doing things and I

remember somebody said he was training

with him and he was able to twist and

turn a certain way to where if a normal

human being would do it they would like

tear their cartilage in their ribs and

he was able to do that and bring him

back to where he was and I was like yeah

dude that's that's a freak right there

but he's always wrestled like that

because he's not like a physically

imposing guy I'm sure he's very strong

because he's been wrestling his whole

life but yeah his style was always like

this just weird style that was very

difficult for people to understand so

they would they would try to like do

traditional [ __ ] with him and all sudden

they'd be on their back yeah it just

didn't work by the time we got him

though he was already [ __ ] up needed

to hip replacement and he was already

retired right and so that's that's what

I heard and so when they were want to do

that trading like yeah we'll take

Demetrius over Ben because Demetrius is

still active and he's still you know

still I always look at myself as a

Workhorse right like I will you're

paying me to fight I'm gonna fight right

and so I think it was a no-brainer for

them and that's that's how it happened

well I definitely would have kept you in

the UFC so that's not I'm sorry

sweetheart

I mean if you look at guys like Davidson

figuerado Brandon Moreno there's some

amazing fights for you yeah absolutely

and the Flyway division is sort of risen

up yeah there's there's a lot of like

very interesting contenders now yeah but

I don't have any say in like which what

goes down yeah but I'm not the guy

why am I saying you were the winner I

was like we need to make this happen

okay when you make it happen like I just

heard that you kind of had like some

type of persuasion I guess you can say

when you guys were out and about but

that's what I've been told like I said I

don't know the full story because I'm

just an athlete I'm just hey this is

what I want can you guys make it happen

then I'll let the higher-ups like Hunter

Matt Hume Maki they're doing all their

pieces and then you know [ __ ] well I

know that could have been a [ __ ]

rumor all right so it's definitely a

rumor oh well there you go it's a rumor

don't believe everybody here I

definitely was excited to see Ben ask

her and come over to the UFC but and

also as a fight fan and I was excited to

see you go over to one yeah because the

same way I was excited to see Eddie

Alvarez over there and I I think we need

more events more competition is good one

that's good for everybody absolutely and

what you're seeing now with one FC is

these world-class [ __ ] guys