UFC Commentary Clash: Rogan Responds to Rousey's Claims
Joe Rogan has publicly addressed recent criticism from former UFC champion Ronda Rousey regarding his expertise in mixed martial arts commentary. The renowned podcaster, who has been associated with UFC since the 1990s despite never competing professionally, responded calmly to Rousey's assertion that he's 'not an expert' but rather 'a fan with an audience'.
Champion Mentality Versus Broadcasting Experience
During an episode of his massively popular 'Joe Rogan Experience' podcast, Rogan revealed that Rousey's comments 'didn't really bother me' and acknowledged her right to express her opinion. He demonstrated understanding of her perspective, noting that her 'champion mentality' naturally leads her to question those who haven't competed at the highest level.
Rogan explained the psychological dynamic at play, stating: 'When you watch a fight and you're watching you get your a** kicked and the commentator is talking about how great the other person is doing and how bad you're doing, that doesn't sit well with a lot of people. Especially someone who's got that type of champion mentality, that type of f*cking pitbull mentality.'
Historical Context of the Rift
The tension between Rogan and Rousey dates back to 2016 when the fighter left UFC with considerable bitterness towards the colour commentator. Rousey, now 38, has previously accused Rogan of showing her disrespect during the latter stages of her fighting career and claimed he 'turned on me' after previously expressing admiration for her abilities.
Last year, Rousey elaborated on her disappointment during an interview with Chris Cuomo: 'It was really disappointing to see how happily everybody turned on me and how people like Joe Rogan, who were crying in the ring about the honor of being able to call my fights, people I considered friends in the media, so quickly turned on me.'
Despite the criticism, Rogan maintained nothing but respect for Rousey's accomplishments, calling her 'a legend' and 'the first legitimate female superstar' in UFC history. He emphasised: 'I've got nothing but love and respect for that lady. What she did was so impressive.'
Rousey's Groundbreaking Career
Ronda Rousey's credentials in combat sports remain unquestioned. She made history as the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in judo, capturing bronze at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics before transitioning to mixed martial arts.
Her professional MMA career began in 2011 with King of the Cage before quickly moving to Strikeforce, where she won the Women's Bantamweight title in her fifth professional fight. When UFC acquired Strikeforce's roster, Dana White crowned Rousey as the inaugural UFC women's bantamweight champion.
Rousey's dominance was absolute during her peak, successfully defending her title six times while building an undefeated 12-0 professional record. Her stardom reached unprecedented levels before consecutive losses to Holly Holm in 2015 and Amanda Nunes in 2016 prompted her retirement from the sport.
The former champion's legacy was formally recognised when she was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018, receiving her trophy from UFC president Dana White. Despite the recent exchange of criticisms, both figures remain pivotal to the history and growth of women's mixed martial arts.
