Popular podcast host Joe Rogan has accused CNN of attempting to portray him in a misleading light during the COVID-19 pandemic by deliberately selecting specific images from his UFC appearances.
Speaking on his podcast “The Joe Rogan Experience” on January 23, 2025, Rogan detailed how the news network allegedly used freeze-frame photos from UFC weigh-in ceremonies to create what he believes was an unfavorable narrative.
“CNN, during the COVID times in particular, whenever I get in trouble, the photo they would use of me was me at the UFC weigh-ins,” Rogan explained during the episode. He described how the network would capture moments when he was simply greeting spectators: “So when I do the weigh-ins, I announce the weigh-ins, I say, welcome to the weigh-ins, everybody.”
The podcast host, who also serves as a UFC commentator, claimed the network deliberately chose specific frames of him waving to crowds to create a particular impression. “That’s what they did. So they would use this photo of me, to try to make it look like I was some sort of a Nazi. Because I’m waving to the crowd, and they take a freeze frame of it,” he stated.
This revelation comes amid ongoing discussions about media representation and the responsibility of news organizations in their coverage of public figures especially as it pertains to Elon Musk. Rogan, whose podcast reaches millions of listeners worldwide, has previously been vocal about his experiences with mainstream media coverage.
CNN has not yet responded to these allegations as of the time of publication.
