Joe Rogan’s UFC Twist
Joe Rogan is no stranger to making bold statements in the world of mixed martial arts, and his latest twist on the upcoming UFC title bouts has certainly raised some eyebrows. The UFC commentator and podcasting icon recently floated a wild idea that could shake up both the featherweight and lightweight divisions. Rogan’s suggestion? A tournament-style showdown between the champions to determine the true king of both divisions.
Rogan’s Bold Vision for the UFC’s Lightweight and Featherweight Divisions
During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, the longtime UFC commentator weighed in on the upcoming title fights in both the 145-pound and 155-pound divisions. With reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev set to defend his belt against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 and featherweight king Ilia Topuria eyeing a possible super fight, Rogan threw out a scenario that would take things to another level entirely.
His idea? A cross-divisional tournament featuring Makhachev, Topuria, and perhaps former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski as well. In true Rogan fashion, the concept was outlandish yet intriguingly possible.
“Wouldn’t it be crazy if we had a featherweight versus lightweight showdown? Have Makhachev fight Topuria, Poirier fight Volkanovski, and then the winners face off? That would be insane,” Rogan mused.
Would the UFC Ever Entertain Such an Idea?
While Rogan’s vision might sound like fantasy booking, the UFC has never shied away from putting on epic matchups when the stars align. Just look at how Conor McGregor stirred the pot when he won belts in two divisions simultaneously. A tournament between the best of 145 and 155 pounds could bring a level of excitement and unpredictability rarely seen in the sport.
However, there are logistical hurdles to consider. Fighters would have to agree on weight classes, and the UFC would have to navigate rankings, mandatory defenses, and promotional priorities. Despite these challenges, Rogan’s pitch isn’t without merit. Fans love super fights, and a high-stakes tournament crowning an undisputed champion could captivate audiences worldwide.
Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier: The Immediate Concern
Before any tournament-style shake-up can even be considered, Islam Makhachev has a major challenge in front of him. The dominant lightweight champion is set to defend his title against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. Poirier, a battle-tested veteran, has climbed to another title shot and believes this could finally be his time.
If Makhachev retains his championship, Rogan’s idea could gain traction, especially if Topuria also shines in his next outing. The UFC has always rewarded dominant performances, and if both champions continue to rack up wins, the demand for a cross-divisional war might become too loud to ignore.
Ilia Topuria’s Potential Super Fight Aspirations
Meanwhile, featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is looking for legacy-defining fights. A move to lightweight isn’t out of the question, especially if a super fight against Makhachev or another contender presents itself. Topuria has expressed confidence in his ability to hang with the best, and a fight that cements him as a two-division star would be the ultimate proving ground.
If Rogan’s vision were to materialize, it could set the stage for one of the wildest storylines in modern UFC history.
Final Thoughts: Rogan’s Idea is Wild, But Not Impossible
Joe Rogan has always been a fan of pushing the envelope when it comes to combat sports discussions, and his latest suggestion certainly follows suit. While a tournament featuring Makhachev, Topuria, Poirier, and possibly Volkanovski might seem far-fetched, stranger things have happened in the UFC.
Will Dana White and the UFC brass consider something as unconventional as Rogan’s idea? Only time will tell. But one thing is certainit would be a spectacle the MMA world would never forget.
Regardless of whether this idea comes to fruition, the lightweight and featherweight divisions are stacked with intriguing matchups, and the MMA world will be watching closely.
