UFC commentator Joe Rogan expressed his desire for the UFC to venture into a new arena of combat sports. Joined by former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya, Rogan made a compelling case for the organization to launch a kickboxing league instead of pursuing its current investment in slap competitions.
Rogan, known for his passionate advocacy of various martial arts, argued that a kickboxing league would offer more excitement and appeal to fans. “I really wish the UFC, I know they’re invested in this slap-fighting stuff, but instead of that, have a kickboxing league,” Rogan stated. He believes that the UFC’s marketing prowess could effectively promote such events and create new stars in the kickboxing world.
The podcast host emphasized the potential for thrilling moments in kickboxing, particularly without the grappling element present in mixed martial arts. Adesanya, a former kickboxing champion himself, agreed with Rogan’s sentiment, noting that the UFC’s promotional machine could easily build kickboxing superstars from the ground up.
Rogan drew comparisons to ONE Championship, an Asian-based promotion that has successfully showcased Thai kickboxers, suggesting that the UFC could adopt a similar model. He argued that the stand-up nature of kickboxing matches would resonate strongly with American audiences, who often appreciate striking exchanges and knockouts.
This proposition comes at a time when the UFC, under the leadership of CEO Dana White, has been heavily investing in its Power Slap league. White has been a vocal defender of the slap fighting venture, claiming it has already reached a valuation of $750 million.
However, the slap league has faced significant criticism from various quarters, including concerns about participant safety and potential health risks. Rogan himself has been critical of the format, describing it as “free brain damage” and questioning its necessity.
Despite the pushback, White remains committed to the Power Slap venture, arguing that all sports carry inherent risks and that participants are aware of the dangers involved. The UFC CEO’s determination to make Power Slap his next big success after the UFC’s rise to prominence is evident.
