As of December 24, 2024, the world’s No. 1 podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience (JRE), has celebrated an incredible milestone—15 successful years. Time truly flies, doesn’t it? What started as a bold idea on Christmas Eve in 2009 has since transformed the digital media landscape. Now entering its 16th year, Joe Rogan’s ‘Jack-of-all-trades‘ persona continues to enthrall audiences as he delves into an array of fascinating topics on his podcast.
In addition to hosting the JRE, Joe Rogan has been a cornerstone of UFC commentary for decades. Balancing these two high-profile roles has been no easy task, and as the podcaster approaches his late 50s, it’s only natural to question how long he can continue juggling his podcast, comedy clubs, and UFC commitments. In 2024, Rogan primarily commentated only on major domestic UFC pay-per-view events, omitting international cards such as UFC 304, 305, and 308. His absence from UFC Fight Night events has further fueled speculation that his time as a commentator may be winding down.
With his podcast and comedy ventures occupying much of his focus, many fans are left wondering: Is Joe Rogan gradually stepping away from his role as a UFC commentator? If that’s the case, the next question is: who could step into Rogan’s shoes? After careful consideration, we’ve identified three ‘big’ names who could potentially succeed him in the commentary booth. Let’s take a closer look at who they are.
1. Chael Sonnen
If there’s anyone who could seamlessly step into Joe Rogan’s shoes, UFC analyst Chael Sonnen undoubtedly tops the list. Sonnen famously proclaimed himself the “biggest voice in MMA,” a bold claim that may seem exaggerated, but holds undeniable weight. While the podcaster’s versatility allows him to navigate conversations on everything from MMA to UFOs and conspiracy theories, Sonnen’s expertise lies squarely in the world of combat sports—a realm he knows intimately.
Chael Sonnen has devoted his entire career to MMA. As a former title challenger in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions, he brings a wealth of firsthand experience to the table. Active in the sport since 1997, Sonnen has seen it all, and this perspective adds unique depth to his analysis. His commentary credentials are well-established, with sharp insights showcased on his popular YouTube channel and his role alongside Daniel Cormier on ESPN’s Good Guy, Bad Guy podcast.
one of the coldest lines ever from the goat himself, chael p sonnen @ChaelSonnen
pic.twitter.com/CP5Gzj018t
— diablo (@NickDiabloDiaz) September 12, 2020
Dubbed the ‘Bad Guy’ for his brash persona and iconic trash talk, Chael Sonnen has carved out a reputation as one of the most charismatic and outspoken figures in MMA. His natural flair for commentary, demonstrated repeatedly at Bellator events, highlights his ability to break down fights with precision and deliver insights with captivating energy. Should Joe Rogan ever step away from the UFC broadcast team, would Sonnen’s sharp wit, expert analysis, and larger-than-life personality make him the ideal successor?
2. Bas Rutten
Bas Rutten, a former UFC heavyweight champion, three-time Pancrase world champion, and current PRIDE commentator, stands as our second top contender to succeed Joe Rogan in the UFC commentary booth. With nearly a decade of fighting experience in MMA, including several fights under the UFC banner, Rutten’s involvement in the sport runs deep. Since retiring, he’s worked with multiple MMA organizations and ventured into Hollywood projects, notably commentating with PRIDE, which provided him with invaluable experience—almost like an “internship” in the world of commentary.
View this post on Instagram
Moreover, this extensive knowledge could be a major asset for Dana White and the UFC in their promotional efforts. Rutten’s global popularity spans across America, Europe, and Asia, and his appeal could very well elevate the UFC to new heights, potentially surpassing even the impact Joe Rogan had. Rutten’s legacy is undeniable, as evidenced by his place among Conor McGregor’s top five favorite fighters. As McGregor himself put it, “Rickson Gracie, Royce Gracie, Ken Shamrock, Chuck Liddell… how many is that? Three, four? Four? The OGs… Bas Rutten.”
3. Michael Jai White
Michael Jai White would be an excellent choice to step into Joe Rogan’s shoes, particularly if the UFC aims to combine a profound knowledge of mixed martial arts with an added layer of entertainment. Known for captivating audiences as a seasoned actor, White first gained widespread recognition through his portrayal of Mike Tyson in the sports biographical drama Tyson. But White’s accomplishments extend far beyond acting. He is a highly skilled martial artist with expertise in Kyokushin, Taekwondo, Koudo, Shotokan, and the Superfoot system.
Moreover, his impressive martial arts background has earned him widespread respect as someone who truly understands the art of combat. The UFC podcaster himself has lauded White’s fighting abilities during his The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, saying, “You look in Bruce Lee’s eyes, you look in Chuck Norris’ eyes. Those are people that really know how to f*** people up. You can see it in their eyes. Michael Jai White had a bunch of fights. Yeah, he had a bunch of Kyokushin fights. Michael Jai White is legit! Michael Jai White has a perfect technique. Perfect!”
The post 3 Replacements for Joe Rogan’s Commentary Seat in the UFC appeared first on EssentiallySports.
