“And Then He Died….”: Joe Rogan Gets Emotional While Revealing the Real Reason Why He Decided to Grow a Beard Back in Late 2000’s

‘The Joe Rogan Experience’ hosted by popular UFC commentator Joe Rogan is a podcast that delves into everything from UFC fights to TV shows and everything in between. The show features different guests alongside Rogan as they discuss and share their thoughts on these topics. Rogan is also infamous for his unfiltered takes on many issues as well. However, in the sit-down with rapper Jelly Roll, the tone of the conversation took a sad turn.

The duo discussed a picture of Joe Rogan with a beard. Fans of the MMA analyst might be more familiar with a different look of Rogan’s. In this episode, Rogan began to explain why it was that he decided to uncharacteristically grow a beard. The discussion brought up the name of Evan Tanner. Evan Lloyd Tanner was a former UFC middleweight champion. The clip that was uploaded to YouTube summarized the conversation that Rogan had with his guest.

Joe Rogan states the unfortunate reason for growing his beard

Rogan said, “I grew a beard when Evan Tanner died. There was a dude named Evan Tanner. He was a UFC champion. He was a very interesting guy, he would go a walk about trying to find himself.” Rogan revealed that the beard was a tribute to his friend and fighter, Tanner. Later in the conversation, he elaborated on the cause of Tanner’s untimely death that prompted his show of solidarity.

Rogan continued, “And he did one in Death Valley. I think it’s the hottest spot on earth. Heat stroke. Apparently affects your ability to think straight. So he couldn’t figure out where the water was. The way it’s described, it’s like, doesn’t matter how tough you are, your brain doesn’t work right.” A visibly emotional Rogan concluded, “And then he died. So, uh, Evan, we all loved him.”

Jelly Roll comforts Rogan; “His story will live forever”

After he spoke about Tanner’s passing, Rogan took a moment. He displayed a deep sadness and an emotional side of his as he paused to collect himself. Rogan then continued, “F**k man. He would have been cool to have around.” His guest for that episode was American singer Jason Bradley DeFord, popularly known as Jelly Roll. The multi-genre singer and songwriter had some kind words to console Joe Rogan.

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He said, “His story will live forever. Forever, will have that clip of Joe Rogan getting emotional talking about his friend, Evan Tanner, because you’re seeing a picture of you with a beard. Rest in peace, Evan Tanner.” Evan Tanner became a Middleweight champion back in UFC 51. He passed away in 2008. While the Octagon misses him, like Bradley said, these conversations will keep his legacy alive for a long time.

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