Fight Companion - March 21, 2026
In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub examine several aspects of the UFC's current state. The hosts discuss UFC booking decisions and their impact on fight quality, including specific matchups like Michael Venom Page vs. Logan Laro, and analyze Evloev's performance against Laro, exploring the possibility of a title match against Volkanovski.
The conversation also covers broader issues affecting combat sports. Rogan and Schaub, joined by Eddie Bravo, address fighter compensation disputes involving athletes like John Jones and Nate Diaz. They examine concerns about the current judging system in MMA, with suggestions for potential reforms such as scoring inactive rounds as draws.
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1-Page Summary
The UFC and Its Business/Booking Decisions
Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub discuss several controversial UFC booking decisions that they believe are affecting the quality of fights. They criticize the UFC for matching Michael Venom Page against his training partner Logan Laro, which resulted in a notably lackluster fight. The hosts suggest that the UFC often prioritizes marketability over skill, booking fighters who can sell tickets and pay-per-views rather than those who might deliver technically superior performances.
MMA Fighters, Fighting Styles, and Fights
In discussing recent fights, Rogan and the commentators highlight Evloev's impressive performance against Laro, where he demonstrated unexpected striking prowess alongside his known grappling abilities. While Laro struggled with a hip injury that limited his movement, Evloev showed a diverse striking arsenal and dominated the fight. This led Rogan and Schaub to suggest that Evloev deserves a title shot against champion Volkanovski, which they believe would present an intriguing matchup.
Controversies, Conspiracies, and Issues in MMA/Combat Sports
The conversation shifts to broader issues in combat sports, particularly focusing on fighter compensation and judging concerns. Rogan and Schaub discuss ongoing pay disputes, noting cases like John Jones and Nate Diaz, who they believe deserve significantly higher compensation. On the topic of judging, Rogan, Schaub, and Eddie Bravo advocate for scoring reform, with Bravo suggesting that rounds with minimal action should be scored as draws. They cite several controversial fights as examples of why the current scoring system needs improvement.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Joe Rogan is a longtime UFC commentator and popular podcast host known for his deep knowledge of MMA. Brendan Schaub is a former professional MMA fighter turned analyst and podcaster. Both have significant influence in the MMA community through their commentary and media presence. Their opinions often shape fan and industry discussions about the sport.
- Michael Venom Page (MVP) is a highly skilled and popular MMA fighter known for his unorthodox striking and flashy style. Logan Laro is a less prominent fighter, often seen as a developing prospect rather than a top contender. Their matchup was controversial because they are training partners, which can reduce competitiveness and excitement. Fans and commentators expected a more competitive fight given MVP's reputation.
- Matching training partners against each other is often seen as poor booking because they know each other's strengths and weaknesses intimately, which can lead to less competitive and more cautious fights. Fighters may avoid taking risks to protect their relationship and training dynamics. This familiarity can reduce the excitement and unpredictability that fans expect. Additionally, it may limit the fighters' ability to showcase their full skill sets.
- Ilia Topuria Evloev is a rising lightweight contender known for his well-rounded skills in the UFC. Alexander Volkanovski is the reigning featherweight champion, widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters. Both fighters are highly ranked in their respective divisions, with Volkanovski holding the top spot in featherweight. A matchup between them would be notable due to their elite status and contrasting fighting styles.
- A "title shot" in the UFC is an opportunity for a fighter to compete for the championship belt in their weight division. It is significant because winning a title shot makes a fighter the official champion, often leading to greater recognition, higher pay, and sponsorship deals. Title shots are typically awarded based on a fighter’s performance, rankings, and marketability. Securing a title shot is a major milestone and goal in a fighter’s career.
- John Jones and Nate Diaz are high-profile UFC fighters known for drawing large audiences. Both have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with their pay relative to the revenue they generate. Their disputes highlight broader concerns about fighter compensation fairness in the UFC. These issues have sparked debates on how fighters should be paid in combat sports.
- MMA judging typically uses the 10-point must system, where judges score each round individually, awarding 10 points to the winner and 9 or fewer to the loser. Judges evaluate based on effective striking, grappling, aggression, and control of the octagon. Controversy arises because judging is subjective, leading to inconsistent decisions and disputes over what constitutes effective action. Critics argue this system can reward inactivity or fail to reflect the fight's overall flow accurately.
- "Rounds with minimal action" refer to periods in a fight where neither competitor is significantly advancing, attacking, or controlling the match. Scoring these rounds as draws means neither fighter gains an advantage in that round's score. This approach could reduce controversial decisions where judges favor one fighter despite little clear dominance. It encourages more decisive performances to win rounds outright.
- Eddie Bravo is a renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and founder of the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system. He is influential in MMA for his innovative grappling techniques and has coached several fighters. Bravo is also known for his outspoken views on MMA rules and judging, often advocating for changes. His opinions carry weight due to his expertise and experience in combat sports.
- Marketability in UFC booking means choosing fighters based on their ability to attract fans, generate media attention, and sell tickets or pay-per-views. This often involves popular personalities or fighters with exciting styles, regardless of their current skill level or rankings. Skill-based matchmaking prioritizes pairing fighters based on their competitive merit, records, and potential for high-quality, evenly matched fights. The tension arises because marketability can lead to less competitive fights, while skill-based matches may not always draw as much public interest.
Counterarguments
- The UFC's focus on marketability is a strategic business decision that helps grow the sport and increase its audience.
- Booking fighters like Michael Venom Page against a training partner could be seen as a way to avoid unnecessary external rivalries and maintain a healthy training environment.
- A lackluster fight can occur for various reasons, and it's not always predictable or solely due to the matchmaking.
- Evloev's impressive performance could be attributed to his hard work and dedication rather than a flaw in the UFC's booking decisions.
- Injuries like Laro's hip issue are part of the sport, and fighters often compete despite them, which can affect the quality of a fight but is not necessarily related to UFC's decisions.
- While Evloev may deserve a title shot, there could be other contenders or logistical reasons why this matchup has not been made.
- Fighter compensation is complex and involves negotiations that take into account various factors, including the fighter's draw, contract terms, and market conditions.
- The current judging system, while not perfect, is based on established criteria that judges are trained to follow, and any changes would require careful consideration and consensus within the industry.
- Scoring rounds as draws could lead to more frequent and potentially unsatisfying draw decisions in fights.
- Controversial fights can stimulate discussion and improvements in the sport, but they do not necessarily indicate systemic issues with judging or scoring.
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The UFC and Its Business/Booking Decisions
Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub critique the UFC’s recent booking decisions, discussing how questionable matchmaking affects fighter performances and audience excitement.
UFC's Questionable Matchmaking Impacts Fighter Performances and Excitement
UFC Books Disappointing Matchup: Michael Venom Page vs. Logan Laro, Training Partners
Rogan mentions that the UFC is "fucking [Michael Venom Page] over" by booking him to fight Logan Laro, a close teammate. Schaub comments that this matchup doesn't make a lot of sense for MVP's career progression, especially since it's the last fight on his contract. They discuss that fighting a training partner reduces the element of surprise, as a training partner is familiar with MVP's unique style, which should not be experienced for the first time in a live fight.
Despite its potential strangeness, Rogan and Schaub remark that the MVP vs. Laro fight was dull, with the fighters only landing a few strikes each. The hosts express disappointment with the fight, stressing that the matchup fails to allow MVP to showcase his talents, impacting the excitement and performance of the fight.
UFC Books "Lay-and-Pray" Fighters in Boring Title Fights
Joe Rogan and Eddie Bravo broach another contentious issue, criticizing the UFC matchmakers for not just booking unexciting fights but also preferring fighters who adopt less engaging styles in the Octagon. They suggest that fights leading to minimal action, like a grappling match they reference which ended in a draw, reflect poorly on the sport and the fighters involved. A discussion about fan reactions indicates that "lay and pray" strategies, despite being a legitimate way to win, are not favored by the audience.
UFC Favors Ticket and PPV Sellers Over Skilled Fighters
Rogan and Schaub suggest that the UFC sometimes prioritizes entertainment and marketability over the actual skill and success of their fighters. They discuss how fighters who sell tickets and pay-per-views can receive preferential treatment in matchmaking decisions. This includes keeping fighters for their entertainment value, even if they are not always winning, and potentially cutting winning fighters if they are not considered entertaining enough.
Furthermore, the hosts discuss potential pressures fighters face to engage in ex ...
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The UFC and Its Business/Booking Decisions
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Michael Venom Page (MVP) is a British mixed martial artist known for his unorthodox striking and flashy fighting style, gaining popularity outside the UFC before joining. Logan Laro is a less prominent fighter, often seen as a training partner rather than a top contender. MVP's significance lies in his exciting fighting style and fan appeal, while Laro is less known and considered a lower-profile opponent. Their matchup is controversial because it pits a star against a teammate, reducing competitive intrigue.
- In the UFC, "booking" refers to the process of organizing and scheduling fights between fighters. It involves deciding which fighters will compete against each other, when, and at what event. Booking considers factors like fighter readiness, rankings, marketability, and storyline potential. This process is crucial for maintaining audience interest and the sport's business success.
- Training partners regularly practice and spar together, sharing techniques and strategies. This familiarity reduces unpredictability in a fight, as each knows the other's strengths, weaknesses, and habits. It can lead to less aggressive or cautious fighting, diminishing excitement and competitiveness. Consequently, matchups between training partners often lack the intensity seen in fights between unfamiliar opponents.
- "Lay-and-pray" is a grappling strategy where a fighter takes an opponent down and controls them on the ground without actively trying to finish the fight. It focuses on maintaining dominant position and minimizing risk rather than engaging in striking or aggressive moves. Fans often find it boring because it leads to little action or visible offense, reducing excitement. This style can result in slow-paced fights with minimal striking exchanges.
- UFC matchmaking decisions are influenced by fighter rankings, marketability, and contract status. Promoters consider fan interest, potential pay-per-view sales, and fighter readiness. Matchmakers also balance competitive fairness with entertainment value. External factors like fighter availability and injuries can affect scheduling.
- Ticket sales and pay-per-view (PPV) buys generate significant revenue for the UFC, directly impacting its profitability. Fighters who attract large audiences through their popularity or fighting style help boost these sales. The UFC often prioritizes matchups featuring such fighters to maximize financial returns. This business model can influence matchmaking, sometimes favoring marketability over competitive merit.
- A fighter's contract status affects matchmaking because the UFC may book fights to evaluate if they want to renew the contract. If it's the last fight on a contract, the promotion might avoid high-risk matchups to protect their investment. Fighters nearing contract end may have less leverage in negotiating favorable fights. This can influence the quality and competitiveness of their matchups.
- Fighting styles that emphasize aggression and striking tend to create more visually exciting bouts, attracting larger audiences. Conversely, defensive or grappling-heavy styles, often called "lay-and-pray," can lead to slower, less dynamic fights that may bore viewers. Fighters with exciting styles are more marketable because they generate higher ticket sales and pay-per-view buys. Promotions like the UFC often favor these fighters to maximize revenue and fan engagement.
- Fighter rankings in the UFC are determined by a panel of media members who vote based on fighters' recent performances, wins, losses, and quality of opponents. Rankings help establish a hierarchy within each weight class, guiding matchmaking and title shot decisions. Higher-ranked fighters are typically considered more deserving of championship opportunities and prominent fights. Rankings also influence fan interest and promotional focus, impacting a fighter’s career trajectory.
- A fighter might be cut from the U ...
Counterarguments
- The UFC may book fights between training partners like MVP and Logan Laro to test the adaptability and mental fortitude of fighters, which can be an intriguing storyline for fans.
- Matchups between training partners can sometimes lead to highly technical and strategic fights that are appreciated by hardcore fans of the sport.
- "Lay-and-pray" fighters often have a strong wrestling or grappling background, and their style is a legitimate and sometimes dominant strategy within MMA; it can be appreciated for its technical complexity.
- The UFC's prioritization of marketable fighters can be seen as a business necessity to sustain and grow the sport, as it relies on audience interest and revenue from ticket sales and PPV.
- Fighters who are marketable may also serve as ambassadors for the sport, helping to attract new fans and expand the audience.
- The UFC's matchmaking decisions might aim to balance entertainment with competitiveness, and sometimes marketable fighters also possess high-level skills that justify their push.
- Elevating fighters in the rankings based on their marketability can create compelling storylines and ...
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Mma Fighters, Fighting Styles, and Fights
Evloev vs. Laro: Grappler vs. Striker Matchup
Evloev Outpaces and Outstrikes Laro With Diverse Striking Arsenal
During the fight, Joe Rogan and the commentators were surprised by Evloev's performance, noting that he was not only grappling effectively but also outstriking Laro, who was thought to have the advantage in striking. Evloev's diverse striking arsenal became evident as he delivered a variety of stutter-steps, feints, and different looks, without over-committing. Evloev pressed Laro against the cage and managed to tee off on him, cutting him, which was highlighted by Rogan as a strong conclusion to one of the rounds. He demonstrated superior striking throughout the fight, landing significant shots and winning the exchanges, possibly leading to the cut on Laro.
Laro's Hip Injury Hindered His Kicks and Movement In Later Rounds
An unidentified speaker revealed that Laro told his corner that his hip was hurt. The discussion by Rogan and Brendan Schaub suggested that Laro was dealing with a torn issue that prevented him from throwing kicks effectively and affected his ability to punch. Rogan pointed out that a hip injury affects all power since it comes from that region. The injury likely had significant implications, especially if Laro was expected to fight again soon.
Book Evloev vs. Volkanovski: A Competitive Ufc Title Fight
Evloev's Skills Challenge Champion Volkanovski
Rogan mentioned how Evloev had not resorted to taking shots and was instead looking for openings in his striking, showcasing his confidence and the potential challenge he could pose ...
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Mma Fighters, Fighting Styles, and Fights
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Islam Makhachev Evloev is a professional mixed martial artist known for his grappling and striking skills. Laro is a fighter recognized for his striking ability but suffered a hip injury in the referenced fight. Alexander Volkanovski is the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion, known for his well-rounded fighting style and dominance in the division. All three are significant figures in MMA, with Evloev and Volkanovski being top contenders in the featherweight class.
- UFC stands for Ultimate Fighting Championship. It is the largest and most prominent organization promoting mixed martial arts (MMA) events worldwide. UFC hosts fights featuring top-ranked fighters across various weight classes and disciplines. It plays a key role in popularizing MMA and determining champions in the sport.
- A "grappler" is a fighter who specializes in close combat techniques like wrestling and submissions. A "striker" focuses on punches, kicks, and other stand-up attacks. "Stutter-steps" are quick, hesitant foot movements used to confuse an opponent. "Feints" are fake attacks meant to mislead, while "tee off" means to attack aggressively and repeatedly.
- Pressing an opponent against the cage limits their movement and escape options. It allows the aggressor to control the pace and position of the fight. This position can facilitate strikes, takedowns, or clinch work. It often wears down the opponent physically and mentally.
- A hip injury limits the rotation and extension of the hip joint, which are crucial for generating power in strikes and kicks. It reduces the ability to transfer force from the lower body through the torso to the limbs. Pain and restricted movement also impair balance and stability, making it harder to execute techniques effectively. This leads to decreased speed, power, and accuracy in both punches and kicks.
- UFC rankings are determined by a panel of media members who vote based on fighters' recent performances, quality of opponents, and activity. Title fights are typically granted to top-ranked contenders who have demonstrated consistent success and marketability. The UFC matchmakers also consider factors like fighter readiness, style matchups, and promotional interests. Rankings can be subjective and sometimes controversial, influencing who gets title shots.
- Evloev is primarily known as a grappler, so fans expect him to rely on takedowns to control fights. Not resorting to takedowns shows he adapted his strategy to focus on striking instead. This demonstrates versatility and confidence in his stand-up skills. It also makes him less predictable and harder to prepare for.
- Joe Rogan is a longtime UFC commentator and analyst known for his deep knowledge of MMA and engaging fight commentary. Brendan Schaub is a former UFC fighter turned analyst and commentator who provides expert insights based on his fighting experience. Both contribute to fight broadcasts by explaining techn ...
Counterarguments
- Evloev's striking may have appeared superior due to Laro's injury, which could have compromised his performance.
- The effectiveness of Evloev's diverse striking arsenal might be less pronounced against a fully healthy and prepared striker.
- The significance of pressing Laro against the cage and landing strikes could be diminished if Laro's mobility was severely limited by his hip injury.
- The discussion about Evloev's ranking and title shot opportunity could overlook other contenders who may also have a legitimate claim for a title fight based on their recent performances.
- The excitement about Evloev's potential challenge to Volkanovski m ...
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Controversies, Conspiracies, and Issues in Mma/Combat Sports
Unanswered Questions Surround Epstein's Death
Suicide Narrative Questioned Amid Suspicious Circumstances
Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub discuss the suspicious circumstances surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's death, including malfunctioning cameras, sleeping guards, and reports of a prior assassination attempt. Rogan and Schaub both express skepticism regarding the suicide narrative, considering Epstein's alleged removal of his prostate—an inconsistency with autopsy reports stating his prostate was unremarkable. Schaub questions whether Epstein was truly suicidal, and if so, why there were not better measures to protect him.
Epstein's Ties to Powerful Individuals Sparked Conspiracy Speculation
Epstein's connections to influential people came into scrutiny as Bravo, Rogan, and Schaub highlight his ties to powerful individuals, feeding into the mystery and conspiracy theories. Rogan refers to an interview with Joe Kent on Tucker Carlson's show that hinted at high-level interference, reinforcing the speculation about Epstein's death. Rogan and Schaub also reflect on a joke about Epstein sending kids to a private island, demonstrating awareness of Epstein's alleged crimes among the elite.
Unjust Incidents in Combat Sports, Like Fighter Pay and Controversial Judging, Highlight Systemic Problems
Nate Diaz and Fighters Struggle For Fair Pay From Ufc
The discussion of fighter pay is an ongoing issue in combat sports, as demonstrated through the conversation between Rogan and Schaub. They delve into financial disputes within the UFC, including John Jones's claim that the UFC wouldn't budge over $15 million for a fight. Rogan brings up Diaz's contract with the UFC and a financial offer rumored to be from Netflix, whilst the comparison is made with another fight, alluding to the ongoing struggle fighters like Diaz and others face for fair remuneration.
MVP has apparently been vocal about mistreatment concerning pay by the UFC. Rogan speculates about possible earnings for fighters like Nate Diaz and Francis Ngannou, who he ...
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Controversies, Conspiracies, and Issues in Mma/Combat Sports
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Jeffrey Epstein was a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender accused of running a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. His connections to powerful and influential people made his case highly controversial. Epstein's death in jail, officially ruled a suicide, sparked widespread suspicion and conspiracy theories due to irregularities in the circumstances. The case raised questions about justice, corruption, and accountability at the highest levels.
- Jeffrey Epstein's alleged prostate removal refers to claims that he had undergone surgery to remove his prostate gland. This is significant because the autopsy report stated his prostate was unremarkable, creating a discrepancy. The prostate is a gland involved in male reproductive health, and its removal is typically due to medical conditions like cancer. The inconsistency raises questions about the accuracy of the autopsy and the official cause of death.
- Joe Rogan is a well-known MMA commentator, podcast host, and former fighter, influential in combat sports discussions. Brendan Schaub is a former professional MMA fighter turned podcast host and analyst, often collaborating with Rogan. Eddie Bravo is a renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and instructor, known for his expertise in grappling and MMA commentary. Their roles lend credibility and insider perspectives to debates on MMA controversies and fighter issues.
- The interview with Joe Kent on Tucker Carlson's show gained attention for discussing alleged high-level interference in Jeffrey Epstein's case. Joe Kent, a political figure, suggested that powerful individuals might have influenced the investigation or cover-up. This added fuel to conspiracy theories about Epstein's death not being a simple suicide. The interview is significant because it brought these claims into mainstream media discourse.
- The UFC is a promotion company that organizes and markets mixed martial arts (MMA) events worldwide. It signs fighters to exclusive contracts, controlling their fight schedules and earnings. Revenue comes from pay-per-view sales, sponsorships, and broadcasting rights, with fighters typically paid a base salary plus bonuses. The UFC holds significant power over fighter pay and career opportunities due to its market dominance.
- Nate Diaz is a popular UFC fighter known for his striking skills and outspoken personality. Jon Jones is a former UFC light heavyweight champion widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters. Francis Ngannou is a heavyweight UFC fighter known for his knockout power and former heavyweight champion. MVP (Michael Page) is a British MMA fighter known for his flashy style and success in Bellator MMA.
- MMA fighters are usually paid through a combination of show money (guaranteed pay) and win bonuses, with additional income from sponsorships and pay-per-view shares for top stars. The UFC, the largest MMA promotion, often controls fighter contracts, leading to disputes over pay fairness and transparency. Many fighters argue that their compensation is low compared to the revenue they generate, especially when compared to athletes in other major sports. This has sparked ongoing debates and calls for better pay structures and unionization efforts within the sport.
- MMA fights are typically scored using the 10-point must system, where judges award 10 points to the winner of each round and 9 or fewer to the loser. Judges evaluate effective striking, grappling, aggression, and octagon control to determine the round winner. A round with little a ...
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