Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary Episode: Hour 2 - The List & Boxing League
Release Date: March 5, 2025

Episode Overview

In this engaging second episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into two primary topics: compiling a definitive list of the most clutch New York athletes of all time and exploring the seismic changes proposed for the boxing landscape. Throughout the episode, the trio interacts with listeners, debates passionately, and provides insightful analyses, all while maintaining their signature New York flair.

The List: Clutch New York Athletes

Defining Clutchness in Sports

The conversation kicks off with the hosts discussing what it means to be "clutch" in sports. Clutchness, as defined by the hosts, centers around performing exceptionally well in high-pressure situations, often leading to championship victories or game-winning moments.

Top Clutch New York Athletes

1. Reggie Jackson
   Timestamp: [04:22]
   Reggie Jackson, famously known as "Mr. October," secures the number five spot on the list. Despite only five years with the Yankees, his legendary performance—hitting three home runs in a single World Series game against the Dodgers in 1977—cements his place.

   Peter Rosenberg: "He was Mr. October... three home runs in one World Series game."

2. Eli Manning
   Timestamp: [05:49]
   Placed at number four, Eli Manning is celebrated for his two Super Bowl victories, both highlighted by incredible throws under immense pressure. His ability to remain unflustered in critical moments is lauded by the hosts.

   Alan Hahn: "He didn't have the biggest arm... what he had was the ability... to not feel any pressure whatsoever."

3. Derek Jeter
   Timestamp: [06:20]
   Sitting comfortably at number three, Derek Jeter's clutch performances include his 3,000th hit being a home run and a game-winning RBI single in the final at-bat at the old Yankee Stadium.

   Peter Rosenberg: "He had a game winning RBI single in the last ever at bat in Yankee Stadium."

4. Mariano Rivera
   Timestamp: [10:30]
   Mariano Rivera tops the list as the epitome of clutchness. Known for his devastating cut fastball, Rivera consistently delivered in high-stakes situations, helping the Yankees secure multiple championships.

   Peter Rosenberg: "He would come out and just grab the ball... he was the definition of it."

5. Billy Smith
   Timestamp: [09:50]
   Representing goaltenders, Billy Smith is recognized for his exceptional postseason performances in the 1980s. His ability to elevate his game during playoff series against formidable opponents like the Oilers showcases his clutch nature.

   Peter Rosenberg: "He was really just a clutch guy. Good goaltender, great in a big moment."

Listener and Host Debates

Throughout the segment, callers and hosts engage in lively debates about the inclusion and ranking of various athletes. Suggestions for additions include:

• Yogi Berra: Proposed by a caller, emphasizing his multiple World Series titles and clutch hitting.

  Alan Hahn: "We have a name from the 50s... Yogi Berra. Mr. Clutch."

• Phil Simms: Highlighted for his significant Super Bowl performances.

• Marty Boudor and Bernie Williams: Mentioned as potential candidates for their impactful playoff moments.

Notable Quote:

Alan Hahn: "If you just want the actual like he had a .308 lifetime batting average in the postseason. That's good, I guess."

Boxing League Revolution

Dana White's Vision for Boxing

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Dana White's groundbreaking announcement about establishing a new boxing league. White, alongside WWE’s Nick Khan and Turki Al Sheik from the Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority, aims to revolutionize the sport by consolidating it into a unified organization.

Key Points:

• Consolidation of Sanctioning Bodies: White proposes eliminating the multiple existing boxing organizations to create a single, authoritative league.

• Talent Development: The league intends to nurture undiscovered talent, similar to how the UFC grew under White’s leadership.

• Financial Incentives: By streamlining operations, the new league plans to ensure that more boxers can earn a sustainable living.

• Event Quality: Emphasis on building exciting fight cards from start to finish, enhancing the overall fan experience.

Notable Quotes:

Dana White (Caller’s Input): "We have to build cards that are great from the first fight to the last fight of the night, just like we do in the UFC."

Peter Rosenberg: "It will work as long as you get the big boxers right. Is everybody going to play ball?"

Alan Hahn: "Long, long overdue... I'm really curious to see how this works and clearly trying to partner up with ESPN, right?"

Potential Impact on Boxing

The hosts discuss the potential success of this new league, highlighting the importance of securing top-tier boxers like Canelo Álvarez or Terence Crawford to kickstart the organization. They express optimism that with the backing of influential figures like Dana White and the financial muscle of their partners, the league could breathe new life into boxing.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg: "That always killed this sport is not being able to get the fights that you want. Now if you get everybody in this thing, then there's no questioning who's the champion."

Additional Discussions

Reflections on MTV’s Evolution

In a nostalgic segment, the hosts reminisce about MTV's golden days, lamenting its shift from music to reality TV. They discuss how reality shows like "The Real World" and "Remote Control" diverted the channel from its original mission, leading to its decline.

Notable Quote:

Caller: "No company has truly thrown their brand in the garbage the way Viacom has MTV... the invention of reality TV... that is what killed the network."

Football and Other Sports Insights

Towards the end of the episode, brief discussions touch upon recent football trades, including the potential release of Jonathan Allen from the Commanders and reflections on the Knicks' performance before their west coast road trip.

Conclusion

The "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast provides a deep dive into the essence of what makes an athlete truly clutch, especially within the vibrant sports culture of New York. Additionally, the exploration of Dana White's ambitious plans for a new boxing league offers listeners a glimpse into the future of boxing. Combining spirited debates, expert insights, and engaging interactions with listeners, this episode stands out as a must-listen for sports enthusiasts eager to stay ahead of the curve.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Reggie Jackson on Clutchness:
  [04:22]

  "He was Mr. October... three home runs in one World Series game."

• Eli Manning's Pressure Handling:
  [05:49]

  "He didn't have the biggest arm... what he had was the ability... to not feel any pressure whatsoever."

• Derek Jeter's Postseason Excellence:
  [06:20]

  "He had a .308 lifetime batting average in the postseason."

• Mariano Rivera as the Definition of Clutchness:
  [10:30]

  "He would come out and just grab the ball... he was the definition of it."

• Dana White on Boxing League Goals:
  [32:34]

  "We have to build cards that are great from the first fight to the last fight of the night, just like we do in the UFC."

• Reflection on MTV’s Decline:
  [28:50]

  "No company has truly thrown their brand in the garbage the way Viacom has MTV."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, ensuring that even those who haven't listened can grasp the depth and excitement of the discussions held by Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg.