Sean Brace
Over the weekend, I stumbled into a Joe Rogan interview for Rolling Stone that I’m sure will upset a few UFC fans. The reason why I say that is because during UFC 198, Rogan was absent and people weren’t happy [I still have no idea why he missed the pay-per-view card in Brazil]. Scranton’s own Brian Stann filled in and did a good job. As an aside, I think Stann is very good at commentating and, of course, his story is untouchable.
That being said, it was interesting to look on social media and see how many people were upset that Rogan was not on the call. Well, it seems that UFC fans should start getting adjusted to a Roganless UFC.
While we all move into different facets of our lives, some don’t think about what their favorite celebrities or fighters want to do besides be in the spotlight. Rogan was asked during the interview about the rumors going around that the UFC is for sale. His answer?
Um, I don’t know about that, I don’t know what’s going on. You know, I get conflicting stories about that. But if the sale goes through, I’m a ghost. That’s a fact. That’s a fact.
When he was asked if he’ll truly be gone, his answer may have surprised some.
I’m not working for anybody else. If the sale goes through I’m outta there. I’m already wondering whether or not I can continue doing this as it is. I will always be a fan, I’ll always love it, but shit, I’ve been working for the UFC on and off for almost 20 years. And that’s more than I’ve done anything in my life. I’d like to move on. The only other thing I’ve done longer than that is stand-up comedy, but you know, with stand-up comedy I’m constantly writing new material, I’m traveling, I do it out of my schedule, I do it whenever I want. You know, it’s a very different thing calling fights rather than just being a fan. I’ll always be a fan, for sure, but as far as calling fights…boy, I don’t see that going on very much longer.
After doing a little digging, Rogan’s UFC contract is up this August and it seems like he’s unsure if he’ll renew. There’s no question in my mind the UFC wants Rogan on the call. Even though the fights are clearly the reason why a fan spends $65 on a UFC pay-per-view, it’s that much more enjoyable with Rogan on the call.