Joe Rogan has expressed nothing but admiration for Ronda Rousey following her recent criticisms of his role as a commentator in the UFC. Rousey challenged Rogan’s expertise, describing him as “a fan with an audience” rather than an expert. Despite her comments, Rogan remained gracious in his response during a recent episode of his podcast, “Joe Rogan Experience.”
Rogan hailed Rousey as a groundbreaking figure in women’s sports, stating, “She’s a legend. I mean, I’ve got nothing but love and respect for that lady.” He acknowledged her pivotal role in elevating women’s mixed martial arts, asserting that Rousey was instrumental in convincing UFC President Dana White to welcome female fighters into the league. “It took someone that was that dynamic, that was that special to open his eyes and go, ‘You know what? I think this lady is a star,’” Rogan remarked.
He also reflected on Rousey’s fierce mentality as a champion, empathizing with her perspective. “When she said I wasn’t an expert, everyone’s entitled to their opinion. You’ve got to understand why she thinks like that because she has a champion mentality,” Rogan explained. He recognized that Rousey’s strong drive and competitive spirit are part of what made her such a formidable force in the arena.
Rousey had previously voiced her discontent with MMA media, suggesting that they had turned against her after suffering consecutive knockout defeats. Rogan reiterated his respect for her, stating, “I never had a bad thing to say about Ronda. I still don’t.” He added, “If that lady was a man, she’d be Genghis Khan. She’d be f*cking taking over the world. She’s an animal,” reflecting on her potential and impact on the sport.
This exchange between Rogan and Rousey highlights the mutual respect that continues to exist between two of the most recognizable figures in mixed martial arts, showcasing the complexities of their relationship within a competitive and often harsh industry.