Joe Rogan has been one of the UFC’s most recognizable voices for more than two decades. While his podcast success has made him a global figure, his long run alongside the promotion remains one of the reasons UFC CEO Dana White values him so highly.
Over the years, Rogan has faced criticism for several controversial comments outside the Octagon. According to White, some influential people even tried to pressure him into cutting ties with the longtime commentator. That was never going to happen.
Dana White rejects calls to fire Joe Rogan
Speaking in a recent interview, White revealed that he received requests from powerful individuals who wanted Rogan removed from the UFC broadcast team. His response left no room for debate.
“In Rogan’s rise, he’s gone through some stuff personally too. I’ve had people call and say you gotta do this to Rogan,”
White made it clear he had no interest in entertaining those conversations.
“I’m like, don’t ever call me. Who the hell are you to call me and tell me who I’m going to fire?”
White says Rogan helped build the UFC
White pointed to Rogan’s commitment during the UFC’s early years as the reason his loyalty has never wavered. He recalled that Rogan worked events without pay when the promotion was still trying to establish itself.
“Joe Rogan did the first 12 fights for us for free. When we bought this company, the only two who were any good on radio were me and Joe Rogan, but nobody knew who I was.”
White also remembered the demanding promotional schedule they shared while helping introduce the UFC to new audiences.
“We’d get up at 3:00 in the morning, get dropped into East Coast markets, and do the same interviews over and over. Rogan and I did this for years.”
For White, Rogan’s contributions go far beyond calling fights on commentary.
“He’s been a key, instrumental part of this company. And for anybody, I don’t give a damn how much money you have, or sponsor, or whatever. Nothing’s happening to Joe Rogan.”
White ended by explaining the principle behind his decision.
“Loyalty. It’s the most important thing in the world to me.”