Joe Rogan demands immediate removal of UFC Vegas 109 fighter, calling controversy ‘worse than steroids
Joe Rogan Demands Immediate Removal of UFC Vegas 109 Fighter, Calling Controversy ‘Worse Than Steroids’
Longtime UFC commentator Joe Rogan rarely minces his words, but his recent outburst may have set a new benchmark. Known for his passion and no-nonsense approach, Rogan called for the immediate removal of a UFC fighter, labelling her infraction “worse than steroids.” The controversy stems from a fight that took place during UFC 269, a card remembered for electric upsets and highlight-reel moments—but overshadowed by a shocking display of unsportsmanlike behavior.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
The clash between women’s flyweight contenders Gillian Robertson and Priscila Cachoeira was supposed to be a pivotal one for the division. Instead, it drew attention for all the wrong reasons. As Robertson secured a buzzer-beating rear-naked choke, Cachoeira was seen blatantly eye gouging her opponent, attempting to stick her thumb into Robertson’s eyes multiple times.
UFC fans, pundits, and even fighters quickly condemned Cachoeira’s flagrant foul. “She should be cut. That is horrible. That’s terrible cheating. You literally can’t do that. You will blind someone,” Rogan declared on his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. “It’s not just a blatant foul, it’s f** cheating. It’s worse than steroids.”
Statistics and Context
Cachoeira’s eye gouge was just the tip of the iceberg. She had missed weight by three pounds at the official weigh-in, adding to the controversy. The UFC has a history of strict enforcement against fighters who fail to make weight or cheat, but outright calls for expulsion from a commentator of Rogan’s stature are rare.
While rare, such incidents raise significant concerns about fighter safety. Past examples, such as other controversial UFC decisions, have prompted broader discussions about rule enforcement inside the Octagon.
Expert and Witness Perspectives
On social media and in interviews, fighters expressed near-unanimous disapproval. A veteran UFC referee commented, “In my years officiating, this was one of the most egregious violations I’ve seen. Intentional eye gouging is an automatic point deduction, if not disqualification.”
Some experts, however, cautioned against immediate dismissal. “While this was a serious foul, fighters have made amends and contributed positively to the sport afterwards. The UFC should look at intent, apology, and rehabilitation,” one analyst noted. That said, there’s little precedent for such blatant infractions—most often fighters are disciplined or fined.
A Chance for Redemption?
Amidst the uproar, Priscila Cachoeira did issue a public apology, stating that her actions in the heat of the moment were not representative of her as a fighter. She went on to open a drug rehabilitation center—a move that has garnered support from some corners of the MMA world, drawing a complex picture of redemption and accountability within the UFC. After her knockout win over Josiane Nunes, Cachoeira requested a $50,000 bonus to help fund the facility, securing support for her community initiative.
This development highlights an ongoing debate: Should severe fouls lead to permanent bans, or does the pathway to redemption fit the UFC’s mission? Other recent events in sports, such as controversial league decisions, suggest public sentiment and organizational policy often collide.
A Look at the Future
Cachoeira is set to return at UFC Vegas 109 in a bout against Joselyne Edwards. Her efforts to make amends have found some support, but the shadow of her previous actions lingers. Gillian Robertson, meanwhile, emerged unscathed and continues to climb the rankings, even becoming a fan favorite in the division.
The uproar over this incident could pave the way for stricter regulations and a closer look at disciplinary standards in MMA. If the UFC delivers a clear message about such unacceptable conduct, it could change the landscape of fighter behavior and safety for years to come—a development being watched closely by both fans and insiders, not unlike major sporting partnership announcements.
Source: bloodyelbow.com