Joe Rogan Challenges UFC’s Priorities As Dana White Faces Roster Cut Backlash

Joe Rogan pushes back against Dana White’s UFC vision.© NDTV Photo Library

Joe Rogan has criticised the UFC for appearing to prioritise finishes and entertainment over technical skill. His remarks came after undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat was released despite a perfect promotional record. Speaking on Joe Rogan's Experience with Robert Whittaker, the long-time commentator said fighters should not be punished for winning intelligently. He argued that the sport's core objective remains victory rather than constant chaos. Rogan believes technical mastery deserves as much respect as highlight-reel knockouts.

Joe Rogan slams UFC over Farid Basharat's release

Farid Basharat left the UFC with a 16-0 professional record, including 7-0 inside the promotion. His contract expired following a July win over John Garza. Joe Rogan said he had told the fighter after that bout that he expected a new deal, making the release harder to understand.

"People want everything to be chaos and blood," Rogan said. “He's undefeated and got cut… I don't like that thinking that you have to be uber exciting. The guy's very skillful."

He added, "I don't like when a guy gets cut that wants to keep fighting in the UFC.”

According to Rogan, if a fighter's style is considered dull, match him against an aggressive opponent rather than remove him from the roster. “Put him in with someone who pushes him and makes it a crazy fight,” Rogan added.

Joe Rogan pushes back against the UFC's entertainment debate

Joe Rogan rejected the idea that fighters should take unnecessary risks to satisfy an audience. He argued that MMA is complicated, unpredictable, and built around avoiding damage while imposing one's own skills.

“Everyone's trying to win,” he said. “This idea that you're supposed to just be entertaining and put your brain on the line and ignore your skill set… is ridiculous.”

He also pointed to Khamzat Chimaev's title win over Dricus Du Plessis. A fight many fans found uneventful despite Chimaev's dominant wrestling. If stylistic criticism alone justified releases, Rogan suggested, even champions could face the same scrutiny.

Dana White denies Basharat was the target of his remarks

Dana White has since pushed back against suggestions that his comments targeted Basharat. He said his comments about fighters being difficult to match or work with were general, not a specific explanation for the bantamweight's exit.

The controversy has nevertheless intensified debate over the UFC's roster decisions. Michael Page was also released after five wins in six UFC fights, while Muhammad Mokaev previously left despite being unbeaten in the promotion.

For Rogan, the issue goes beyond one fighter. He fears the UFC is cultivating an audience that values blood and first-round knockouts more than high-level competition.