During a recent episode of Morning Kombat, MMA analyst Brian Campbell made waves with a pointed jab at comedian Brian Callen while discussing the UFC’s ongoing eye-poke controversy, drawing laughter and visible discomfort from co-host Luke Thomas.
The moment came as Campbell and Thomas debated potential solutions to the eye-poke problem that has plagued recent UFC events, most notably sidelining the highly anticipated heavyweight title bout between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane. Aspinall was forced to withdraw after enduring double eye pokes and is reportedly scheduled for surgery to repair the damage.
While discussing whether MMA stars should face automatic point deductions for eye pokes, Campbell made an unexpected analogy.
“It’s like that’s why we made a rule that guys just can’t take their piece out in front of chicks, like casually and randomly, unless you’re Brian Callen,”
Campbell said, comparing the issue to inappropriate exposure and assault.
The reference appeared to allude to misconduct allegations that surfaced against Callen in 2020, which led to his temporary removal from The Fighter and The Kid podcast and other professional consequences. Callen has consistently denied the allegations that got him cancelled. The actual anecote Campbell is mentioning was told by Whitney Cummings in front of Callen and Schaub on their podcast and Callen seemed unapologetic.
Thomas’s response (that is not the direction we’re looking to go with this show, apparently) suggested the comment caught him off guard. Campbell acknowledged the controversial nature of his remark, joking about it being a
“retirement tour.”
Campbell has developed a reputation among fans for taking subtle shots at figures in Joe Rogan’s comedy circle, particularly Brendan Schaub and his podcast ventures. Sharp-eyed viewers on social media have noted Campbell’s use of “Schaubisms” (mispronunciations and malapropisms associated with Schaub) and other inside references that have earned him unofficial recognition among Schaub’s critics online.
The UFC’s eye-poke problem has become increasingly contentious, with MMA stars and analysts divided on solutions. While referee Herb Dean has expressed reservations about automatic point deductions, others like former referee Big John McCarthy have called for stricter enforcement. The Aspinall–Gane situation has only intensified the debate, with Aspinall’s injury serious enough to require surgical intervention.
As for Campbell’s on-air moment, it remains to be seen whether there will be any fallout from his pointed reference to Callen’s controversial past. Morning Kombat continues to air on various platforms, though Campbell’s quip about a “retirement tour” suggests he’s onto bigger and better things with his move to Paramount.
