“I Love Canada” – Joe Rogan Walks Back on Boycott After Claiming He’d “Rather Go to Russia” for UFC Events

In 2022, then-Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau defended his government’s actions against the truck driver protests, stating, “This is about keeping Canadians safe.” The protests erupted in response to a mandate requiring truckers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo a quarantine period. To reportedly suppress the movement, the government took drastic measures, including freezing the bank accounts of individuals linked to the protests and invoking a national emergency. The move drew global attention and sparked widespread controversy. Among the most vocal critics was Joe Rogan, who condemned Trudeau’s actions, accusing the government of suppressing people’s rights.

He went as far as to label the crackdown a “full-blown communist takeover” and vowed never to set foot in Canada until the country “gets rid of Trudeau.” The UFC color commentator and podcaster, who reaches 11 million listeners each month, has held firm on that stance ever since. The controversy resurfaced earlier this month as the UFC geared up for its long-awaited return to Montreal with UFC 315, marking its first event in the city in a decade. Although Trudeau is no longer the Prime Minister due to “internal tensions” within his party, Rogan has not wavered in his stance.

Speaking on a recent Fight Companion episode, he reaffirmed, “I don’t go to Canada anymore.” However, he ignited further debate by adding that he would “rather go to Russia” if the UFC ever held an event there. Then, this past weekend, during episode #2297 of The Joe Rogan Experience, the podcaster clarified his previous comments, explaining that he had been “joking around.” He had previously taken a moment to express his admiration for the people of Canada, whom he described as “awesome.”

Rogan stated, “First of all. But I do not go to Canada anymore. It’s because of the government, and it has nothing to do with the people. I think the people are f—ing lovely. They’re some of my favorite people of all time. Canadian people, I always say that Canada is like America, but with 20% fewer d—-hebags. They’re the nicest people, they’re well-educated, it’s a great population…I love Canada.“

Despite his fondness for the Canadian people, Joe Rogan has refrained from visiting the country since his fallout with the government. His absence was particularly noticeable during UFC 297, held at Ontario’s Scotiabank Arena. At the event, fans chanted “F— Trudeau,” a sentiment that quickly spread worldwide, highlighting the dissatisfaction of many Canadians with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership. The outcry even fueled speculation that Trudeau could step down.

The LA native’s comments also took on greater significance earlier this year when U.S. President Donald Trump, amid ongoing tariff disputes with India and Canada, joked about annexing Canada as the 51st state. Joe Rogan dismissed the notion after speaking with Trump, who admitted the idea was simply “for fun.” With UFC 315 on the horizon, the question remains: Does the podcaster’s absence affect the fighters? Let’s take a closer look!

Jack Della Maddalena on Joe Rogan’s absence from UFC 315

Who wouldn’t want to hear the iconic voice of MMA, Joe Rogan, who has been the face of UFC commentary for over three decades? Jack Della Maddalena is one fighter who would love for the podcaster to call his upcoming title clash against reigning welterweight champion Belal Muhammad. Unfortunately, due to the commentator’s ongoing conflict with the Canadian government and his vow never to visit the country again, he won’t be present at UFC 315 in Montreal, set for May.

Instead, Joe Rogan plans to watch the event from his studio, likely alongside his buddy on the ‘Fight Companion’ podcast. Recently, Jack Della Maddalena was asked about the podcaster’s absence from UFC 315. In an interview with ‘Main Event’ on Instagram, JDM shared, “I mean, yeah, I don’t know. Joe [Rogan], I think he just stays in the US pretty strongly, but that’s all right. That’s all right. They’re having some good commentators there, but as long as the team’s there, I’ll be happy.”

With UFC 315 just around the corner, what’s your opinion on Joe Rogan’s decision not to visit Canada anymore? Do you think his vow is justified, considering his role as a commentator and comedian who strongly values freedom of speech and individual rights? Share your thoughts below.