Why is Joe Rogan disappointed and 'bummed out' over Francis Ngannou leaving UFC?

Joe Rogan recently expressed his disappointment with Francis Ngannou's departure from the UFC
PUBLISHED JUN 3, 2023
Joe Rogan and Francis Ngannou  (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/ Katelyn Mulcahy/ Getty Images)
Joe Rogan and Francis Ngannou (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/ Katelyn Mulcahy/ Getty Images)

AUSTIN, TEXAS: During 'The Joe Rogan Experience' podcast's episode, Joe Rogan recently expressed his disappointment at Francis Ngannou's leaving from the UFC, claiming it is a significant loss for the 36-year-old. 

Rogan, an avid martial arts fan, was cageside for many of Ngannou's stunning UFC victories. He also discussed what draws his interest in Ngannou's decision to join the PFL. After exiting UFC, Ngannou enters PFL partnership to gain equity and leadership roles. Ngannou's move to PFL has made him and his opponents eligible for multi-million dollar paychecks.

'It bums me out'

Rogan and his guests discussed the fight between Ngannou and Stipe Miocic at UFC 260 on the same JRE broadcast. He then expressed his feelings on Ngannou's exit from UFC.

Rogan said, "It’s a big loss in my mind, like, him going to the PFL. It bums me out. I understand it. I’m happy he’s going to get paid, I’m happy he’s going to get to box. But I loved watching this guy fight in the UFC. He was a f***ing monster. He was so good dude. And he is so good."

Later, Rogan discussed Miocic's disadvantage because to the fight taking place at the UFC Apex's smaller octagon with fellow comedians Shane Gillis, Mark Normand, and Ari Shaffir. Rogan stated that because the rematch between Ngannou and Stipe Miocic was held in a considerably smaller cage, the American fighter's game plan was harmed.

Given Ngannou's reach and terrifying KO power,' he stated that the smaller octagon made it impossible for Miocic to keep his space from Ngannou. 

Rogan said, "This is the heavyweight championship of the world. It is in a small cage which is terrible for Stipe. Because he gotta get away from that guy. Anytime you can’t move backward, it’s because there is a cage there. You gotta get away from that guy. He is so destructive, he is so terrifying.”



 

Francis Ngannou's multi million dollar PFL deal

Ngannou enters PFL partnership to gain equity and leadership roles. The agreement with PFL also allows him to compete in boxing. The question of who he fights in the PFL, on the other hand, remains virtually unsolved.

Ngannou could be keeping a watch on the PFL's heavyweight competitions, the winner of which could be his first opponent. This will also allow him to box outside of the promotion and, according to reports, will guarantee $2 million to all of his opponents.

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