Podcast Summary: The Joe Rogan Experience – JRE MMA Show #168 with Khalil Rountree Jr.
Release Date: July 24, 2025
In this engaging episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, host Joe Rogan sits down with UFC fighter Khalil Rountree Jr. to discuss Khalil's recent experiences, fight strategies, personal growth, and future aspirations. The conversation delves deep into the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), providing listeners with a comprehensive view of Khalil's journey both inside and outside the octagon.
1. Experiences in Baku, Azerbaijan [00:17 - 03:16]
Khalil opens the discussion by sharing his transformative experience in Baku, Azerbaijan, where his fight was relocated. Initially skeptical about the unfamiliar location, Khalil praises Baku's hospitality and vibrant atmosphere.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [00:44]: “...Old Town. I did a tour through there.”
He elaborates on the cultural richness of Baku, mentioning landmarks like the Flame Towers and the Carpet Museum, emphasizing the city's unique blend of history and modernity.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [02:33]: “...all these carpets are handmade, like, passed down generation after generation.”
Khalil expresses a strong desire to return to Baku, highlighting the positive impact the environment had on his performance.
2. Weight Cutting Process and Challenges [03:16 - 07:24]
The conversation shifts to Khalil's weight management strategies. He maintains a steady weight, rarely exceeding 230 pounds, and details his disciplined approach during fight camps.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [05:23]: “...I just do not let myself get over 230. That's just like my, that's my oath to myself.”
Khalil discusses his unique weight-cutting method, which involves minimal diet changes and strategic use of saunas to shed pounds quickly without feeling depleted. Despite facing physical challenges like vomiting due to jet lag and a demanding filming schedule, Khalil remains mentally resilient.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [06:11]: “...it was just under two hours for me to be on.”
3. Reflections on Past Fights: Loss to Alex Pereira [09:12 - 12:52]
Khalil reflects on his challenging fight against Alex Pereira, acknowledging it as his first five-rounder. He analyzes the mistakes made, particularly in the fourth round where overcommitment led to taking significant damage.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [11:21]: “The number one mistake that I think was made in that fight is that it was my first five rounder.”
Khalil emphasizes the mental battle he faced, maintaining a positive outlook despite the physical toll.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [06:41]: “...there was nothing that was going to like, my mind for like through this camp, through this fight.”
4. Victory Against Jamal Hill and Its Impact [12:52 - 25:06]
Discussing his subsequent fight with Jamal Hill, Khalil showcases significant improvements in his strategy and execution. He highlights the importance of choosing when to engage and how disciplined fighting can lead to dominance in the octagon.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [23:12]: “...he was out of it going to the second.”
Khalil credits his team and rigorous training for his enhanced performance, contrasting it with his previous loss to Pereira.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [24:10]: “...I just stuck to the plan, I win this fight.”
5. Upcoming Fight with Yuri Prohaska [25:06 - 37:22]
Khalil expresses excitement about his upcoming bout against Yuri Prohaska in Las Vegas, highlighting the significance of fighting in his hometown and the support from local fans.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [26:35]: “...we're now in this, I'm committed to digging this tunnel.”
He discusses Yuri's improvements and the strategic preparation required to face a dynamic and strategic opponent.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [27:35]: “...it requires dedication and focus and, you know, doing the right study.”
6. Training Strategies and Mentorship [35:18 - 71:05]
Khalil delves into his training regimen and the influence of mentors and training partners like Buchecha. He underscores the importance of continuous learning and adapting to elevate his skills to a championship level.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [35:18]: “...I've been training a lot with Buchecha, who just got signed to UFC.”
He also introduces Santo Studio, a collaborative platform aimed at supporting MMA fighters and extreme sports athletes, emphasizing community and mutual growth.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [70:59]: “We're just doing everything we can to just support each other within this, like, MMA community, help each other grow.”
7. Trip to Thailand and Cultural Insights [29:34 - 37:12]
After his fights, Khalil took a recuperative trip to Thailand, where he was invited by the Thailand Tourism Authority. He shares insights into Thai culture, visiting local farms, and experiencing authentic Thai hospitality.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [30:42]: “...there were these windmills and I know they're like. Looks like... the water evaporates and then there's like, salt left at the bottom.”
The trip provided Khalil with a fresh perspective and a much-needed break from the rigors of fight preparation.
8. Vision for Retirement and Future Plans [71:05 - 93:17]
Khalil outlines his aspirations beyond fighting, including potential business ventures with Santo Studio and expanding his life in Asia. He envisions settling in places like Thailand, Hong Kong, or South Korea to provide a balanced and fulfilling life for his future family.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [76:18]: “...if I could live the American dream in Thailand, that would be ideal.”
He emphasizes the importance of discipline and maintaining mental health, aiming to be a positive role model for young fighters.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [84:19]: “...martial arts is a big one.”
9. Approach to Discipline vs. Trash-Talking [93:17 - 134:26]
A significant portion of the conversation centers on the culture of trash-talking in MMA. Khalil advocates for discipline and letting performance speak for itself, contrasting his approach with fighters like Conor McGregor and Chael Sonnen who thrive on verbal sparring to gain attention.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [94:14]: “...I think that there's so many different things that can be done when you have that belt.”
Joe Rogan and Khalil discuss the impact of fighters' behavior on their careers and the perception of MMA among casual fans. Khalil passionately argues against unnecessary trash-talking, emphasizing respect and responsibility as champions.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [93:17]: “...we have a responsibility as athletes, as champions...”
10. Equipment and Gloves Discussion [127:04 - 135:05]
Khalil shares his experiences with MMA gloves, particularly the challenges faced with new glove designs that fail to retain the UFC logo. He critiques the current state of glove innovation and underscores the importance of proper equipment for fighter safety.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [128:34]: “...they weigh the same. Whether it's an XL or an extra small, it weighs the same.”
He highlights his involvement in testing and improving fight gear, advocating for better standards to enhance fighter performance and safety.
11. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks [135:05 - End]
In the concluding segment, Khalil reflects on the importance of being a positive role model and the responsibilities that come with being a champion. He reiterates his commitment to personal growth, discipline, and inspiring others through his journey.
- Notable Quote:
Khalil Rountree Jr. [141:21]: “...I'm grateful and blessed to be in the position that I'm in. And, like, I don't want to waste anything.”
Joe Rogan commends Khalil for his admirable mindset and dedication, expressing excitement for Khalil's upcoming fight against Yuri Prohaska.
- Notable Quote:
Joe Rogan [141:30]: “...I really enjoyed it because I like when people fight smart.”
Khalil wraps up by emphasizing the continuous nature of his journey, striving to grow and make a positive impact both inside and outside the octagon.
Conclusion
This episode provides a profound insight into Khalil Rountree Jr.'s life as a UFC fighter, highlighting his resilience, disciplined approach to training, and thoughtful perspective on the culture within MMA. His aspirations beyond fighting and dedication to being a role model offer inspiration to both fans and aspiring athletes. Joe Rogan's engaging interview style complements Khalil's candidness, making for a compelling and informative discussion.