Joe Rogan will be back in the commentary booth for UFC 319 this Saturday night.
His attention will naturally be on the middleweight title clash between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev, but he’s also keeping tabs on another fighter making waves at 185 lbs.
READ MORE: Dricus du Plessis questions UFC legend’s record, claiming he could soon join GOAT debate
Michael ‘Venom’ Page, who Rogan recently described as the ‘biggest puzzle in MMA’, is set to take on Jared Cannonier on the main card. Page has already made an impression during his 26-fight career, catching the eye of one of MMA’s most recognisable voices.
Michael ‘Venom’ page responds to praise from Joe Rogan
Michael ‘Venom’ Page spoke to reporters at UFC 319 Media Day on Wednesday, where he was asked about Rogan’s comments. The Englishman responded: “I’ve always thought Joe Rogan is a really smart guy.”
“It’s a puzzle because there aren’t many people that come from my style of background within MMA. Finding training partners [to prepare for me] is next to impossible. The closest person you’re going to find is [Stephen] ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson.
“It’s difficult simply because there are less of us. Obviously I love my style, but it’s just because there’s a scarcity and people don’t truly understand it until they’re right in front of us.”
What’s next for Joe Rogan after UFC’s new media deal?
Earlier this week, the UFC signed a $7.7 billion US broadcast deal with Paramount and CBS. The 10-year agreement raised questions about fighter pay, which Dana White says will increase. It also left some uncertainty around Joe Rogan and the rest of the UFC’s established broadcast team.
“Everything is good for Joe Rogan,” he said. “Joe Rogan has no problems in life whatsoever. Joe Rogan was doing great before the deal; he’s going to do just fine after the deal.
“Listen, Joe Rogan isn’t here at the UFC because of the money. He did the first 12 events for free. Joe Rogan has a time problem; that’s the only thing Joe has.
“If Joe didn’t have a time problem, he’d even be doing the Fight Nights. S—, he’d be at the Contender Series!”
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