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Joe Rogan went to far this time. The popular sports commentator is known for his radical ideas to make MMA more thrilling-from revamping the scoring system to suggesting fights without cages. However, his latest proposal has turned even his most devoted ers against him.
As one of the most influential voices in mixed martial arts, Rogan boasts over 30 years of experience as a combat sports analyst and commentator. His name is nearly as recognizable as UFC's controversial owner, Dana White.
Rogan has often used his influence to push for changes in the sport. He played a key role in getting UFC and MMA authorities in the United States to legalize the infamous 12-6 elbow strike. But now, his latest idea has been deemed reckless-putting fighters' lives at risk. This time, fans weren't willing to forgive him.
Rogan's dangerous "rabbit punch" proposal
On a recent episode of his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, the commentator sharply criticized MMA authorities for banning the "rabbit punch"-a blow to the back of the head that is prohibited due to the high risk of brain damage. "I don't even know if we should stop hitting people in the back of the head," Rogan stated
"It doesn't make any sense to me, and it should be legal," he added. "If you talk to a neuroscientist, they'll tell you that's a particularly vulnerable area... but isn't the temple? Aren't the eyes? Everything is so vulnerable."
His remarks ignited backlash, with many expressing grave concerns over the potential dangers of legalizing such a strike.
Fans rip into Rogan
Social media erupted in outrage, with one calling him out: "Joe acts like he knows everything." Another mocked him, saying, "Joe wants street brawls with him commentating at this point." Even his most loyal fans distanced themselves, with one itting, "Joe, I can't keep defending you."
While some ridiculed Rogan's stance, others highlighted the serious risks involved. "Brain damage speedrun," one commenter quipped. Another referenced the tragic case of American boxer Prichard Colon, who was left in a coma for 221 days after suffering repeated blows to the back of the head. "Does Joe know who Prichard Colon is?" the fan questioned.
Despite the backlash, Rogan appears unlikely to abandon his stance. But this time, fans refused to stand by him-one person even bluntly declared, "Joe wants people to die."