AUSTIN, TEXAS: Joe Rogan, a passionate lifelong martial artist, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. The 55-year-old is aware of the inherent risks of combat sports. During an episode of his popular podcast, 'The Joe Rogan Experience', Rogan discussed this topic.
As a commentator for the UFC, Rogan has consistently expressed his concerns about the downsides of combat sports. These concerns played a significant role in his decision to step away from competing in fights himself. Furthermore, he holds the belief that MMA poses a greater danger to participants than the NFL.
'People who get f**ked up… That’s real'
During a discussion about former boxer Andre Ward's challenges, Joe Rogan highlighted the positive impact of sports on Ward's character development. Specifically, Rogan emphasized that combat sports play a crucial role in cultivating discipline.
Rogan stated, "Sports is one of the great ways to do that [Build character], especially combat sports.”
Nevertheless, Rogan acknowledged a downside to combat sports as well. He emphasized the toll it takes on fighters who may not achieve their desired outcomes throughout their entire careers. Additionally, Rogan highlighted the inherent physical risks and potential bodily harm associated with participating in combat sports.
Rogan further stated, "The problem is, there’s also the downside – people who don’t make, people who get brain damage [and] people who get f**ked up… That’s real.”
Rogan's assertion is supported by numerous cases where athletes have experienced significant health issues as a result of their careers in combat sports. This underscores the reality of the potential consequences faced by these athletes.
'It’s not a f***ing 100 percent path'
Rogan expressed that pursuing a career in combat sports is not typically a dream shared by the majority of individuals. He highlighted the numerous uncertainties and challenges that come along the path of engaging in combat sports.
Rogan said, "It’s not a f***ing 100 percent path that you choose combat sports.”
Nevertheless, as with any sport, there will always be exceptions. Rogan, a renowned color commentator for the UFC, believes that individuals who aspire to achieve accolades like Andre Ward should pursue combat sports. Ward's remarkable career, retiring undefeated and even winning a title with an injured hand, serves as inspiration for those seeking extraordinary achievements in the world of combat sports. He stated, "But if you choose combat sports and become Andre Ward, that’s an exceptional human being. That’s a guy who won world titles with one arm.”
