Former UFC commentator shares how Joe Rogan kept him from taking a job with the WWE

Mike Goldberg an American commentator known for his trademark tagline “It’s all over!” in the UFC.

Joe Rogan and Goldberg were UFC’s main broadcast commentators from 1997 until Goldberg’s departure in 2016.

The duo helped shape UFC into the impressive promotional machine it is today.

Recently, Goldberg shared a memorable moment he had with Rogan prior to his departure. He did an interview explaining:

“Joe the whole night kept saying, ‘Dude, You’re not gonna leave me and do (adult entertainment) are you?’… And Joe was instrumental…he went up to Dana [White] and Lorenzo (Fertitta)…and he just said, ‘I love working with Goldie. I don’t wanna work with some other schmo. Don’t let him go, he’s great at what he does and we have a great relationship.’ And I’ll always be thankful to Joe for that.”

After he refused WWE’s offer, he received a voicemail directly from WWE chairman Vince McMahon.

“I don’t think Dana was ever more proud of me than that moment ’cause he felt like he beat Vince [McMahon], right. Vince tried to steal me and I stayed. I should’ve saved that message and that’s not to be disrespectful to Vince McMahon, it was just kind of like, ‘Holy s**t, that’s Vince McMahon on my voicemail.’ And it was an interesting time but ultimately, I made the right decision.”

From then on, Goldberg continued to be part of the UFC family to the point his comments became a staple for the UFC fans.

Goldberg was let go after UFC was acquired by Endeavor in 2016. The promotion underwent a significant rework behind the scenes.

Goldberg received no sendoff from the UFC. Many fans are nostalgic about Goldberg and express their appreciation for his hard work and contributions.

Goldberg then responded on twitter:

“What an incredible ride! I’ll forever be grateful for being on this journey with all of you for the last 19 years!”

“I wish I could respond to every single fan, fighter and member of the media who reached out and showed their support, gratitude and appreciation! It has been overwhelming and so gratifying! Thank you!!”

Before UFC, Goldberg was an announcer in NHL and ESPN Hockey. He was also known to commentate on the infamous brawl between the Red Wings and Colorado Avalanche. The brawl was also featured in ESPN’s docuseries E:60 Unrivaled.

After his departure in UFC, he became Bellator MMA commentator on June 24, 2017 until April 2021. He now commentates at BYB Extreme Bare Knuckle together with former boxing champion Paulie Malignaggi.