In a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan voiced his concerns regarding UFC President Dana White’s foray into the realm of slap fighting. Rogan, who has enjoyed a long-standing friendship with White and has been associated with the UFC for nearly 30 years, believes that this move was misguided and that the organization should have instead channeled its efforts into promoting kickboxing.
Rogan emphasized that kickboxing, particularly when combined with MMA gloves in a cage setting, has significant potential for popularity. He pointed to Glory—the premier kickboxing organization featuring elite athletes like Rico Verhoeven—as an excellent example of the thrill and skill present in the sport. Despite the high caliber of fighters in kickboxing, Rogan lamented that it still lacks the mainstream visibility that the UFC enjoys.
These comments come at a time when White is under fire for his involvement in slap fighting, an area that has sparked debates over the risks of brain injuries for participants. Rogan’s assertion that kickboxing could have achieved comparable success to the UFC, given White’s backing, highlights his strong belief in the sport’s untapped potential.
Ultimately, Rogan’s reflections on the UFC’s venture into slap fighting versus kickboxing provide insightful commentary on the dynamics of combat sports and the strategic choices that can shape their growth and appeal.
