Despite being one of the most well-known voices in MMA, Joe Rogan has frequently found himself at the center of heated debates over his status as UFC commentator. While many people admire his zeal and expertise, some believe that he and Daniel Cormier do not always take their jobs seriously. In fact, when it was announced that Rogan, Cormier, and Jon Anik were returning for UFC 313, fans were outraged, claiming the three had become repetitious, biased, or, in Rogan’s case, too inattentive during fights. Now, during an honest interview on The Joe Rogan Experience #2290, the veteran commentator openly admitted to his dynamic with Cormier—something that might only fuel the ongoing debate.

During the podcast, Rogan and guest Michael Kosta talked about the mental focus needed for commentary. When asked if he stayed totally present during fights, Rogan replied, “Especially not while the actual fight is going on. The actual fight is life and death, you know. You have to be locked in.” However, he subsequently made an admission that surely raised eyebrows. “But Daniel Cormier, my, uh, co… So there’s like two color commentators, me and Daniel, and this John Anik, who’s the play-by-play guy. Me and Daniel f— around a lot. We joke around a lot about stuff during the, because he’s like a fun guy. But when things are serious, we’re serious.”

While his statement definitely implied that they knew when to dial it in, critics may interpret it as validation of their longstanding complaints. Many UFC fans have expressed their displeasure with the Rogan-Cormier duo, accusing them of turning the commentary into a casual podcast rather than giving in-depth fight analysis. Some think the JRE host provides little substance, while others argue Cormier’s strong wrestling bias undermines his objectivity. Joaquin Buckley, Sean O’Malley, and other fighters have previously criticized DC’s statements.

Ahead of UFC 313, the fans were dissatisfied, with several questioning why the UFC continues to rely on the same commentators when other options such as Dominick Cruz, Michael Bisping, and Paul Felder are available. While Rogan’s statement on the podcast acknowledges the lighthearted aspect of his partnership with Cormier, it does not address whether their manner is consistent with what fans expect from a high-stakes PPV event. But while fans may be turning their backs on the UFC commentator, a veteran combat analyst has surely come to his rescue.

Veteran combat analyst claims Joe Rogan made fight commentary authentic

While Joe Rogan‘s commentary approach in the UFC continues to be criticized, one respected individual in the combat sports industry has stood up to defend him. Veteran MMA commentator Robin Black says the podcaster’s impact on the industry is evident, transforming the way fight commentary is delivered. During an exclusive interview with EssentiallySports’ Andrew Whitelaw, Black stated that Joe Rogan’s approach was groundbreaking from the start. Rather than adopting the rigid, scripted manner of traditional sports announcers, the UFC commentator chose to be himself—informal, passionate, and unfiltered. “Joe Rogan sat there watching people commentate—probably non-judgementally—but he was like, ‘Why do they speak in code? Why do they all act like newscasters?’” Black explained.

To understand the impact Rogan has had, look back to his debut UFC appearance in 1997. At a period when MMA was still gaining traction in the United States, Rogan’s debut in Dothan, Alabama, was simply another gig for a young comic and martial arts aficionado. “Thanks, Bruce. I’m back here right now backstage; I’ll be interviewing the fighters as they come out of the Octagon. I’ll also be previewing the fights, the final fights, in each weight division. I’ll be talking to the fighters, and we’ll find out who’s injured, who’s going to be able to continue, and who is going to be able to go in if we need an alternate.” Rogan said, flawlessly combining humor and insight in a way that felt new at the moment. He wasn’t just reporting on fights; he was drawing the viewers into the action, making them feel like they were a part of it. That authenticity has never gone. Even as he progressed from a backstage interviewer to the most famous voice in MMA, Rogan never fit into the standard broadcaster mold.

His influence, however, goes far beyond simply calling fights. In 2009, he established The Joe Rogan Experience, a podcast that began as a side project but quickly became one of the most popular platforms in the world. Last year, he signed a staggering $250 million agreement with Spotify, proving that his unusual style appeals to millions. According to Black, this was not an accident. Rogan had always rejected corporate media’s formulaic approach, preferring to create content that was spontaneous, honest, and fully unscripted. Rogan’s outspoken style of commentary may not appeal to everyone, but his record speaks for itself. But what do you think? Are you a fan of Joe Rogan’s approach? Let us know in the comments.