Joe Rogan Blasts “Fat” UFC Heavyweights – Wants More Athletic Division

The UFC’s heavyweight division has always been a spectacle of power and devastation, but according to the promotion’s most famous commentator, it could use a serious fitness upgrade.

Joe Rogan, the voice of the UFC for over two decades, recently expressed his frustration with the physical condition of many heavyweight fighters, calling for a more athletic and conditioned division at the top weight class.

Rogan’s Raw Take on Heavyweight Fitness Standards

Rogan didn’t mince words during a recent episode of his podcast when discussing the physical appearance of many UFC heavyweights. The BJJ black belt and taekwondo champion believes the division has become too comfortable with carrying excess weight.

“I’m tired of seeing these heavyweights who are just fat,” Rogan stated bluntly. “There’s a difference between being big and powerful versus just being out of shape. Some of these guys could drop 30 pounds of pure fat and be so much more effective.”

This isn’t the first time Rogan has criticized heavyweight fitness. He’s previously praised the more athletic heavyweights like Ciryl Gane and Tom Aspinall, who bring speed and cardio alongside their power.

The Athletic Evolution of the Heavyweight Division

The commentary comes at an interesting time for the division. With fighters like Francis Ngannou departing the UFC and Jon Jones currently holding the belt, the landscape is changing rapidly.

Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champion, represents exactly the kind of athlete Rogan seems to favor – powerful but lean, explosive, and with cardio for days. Meanwhile, the division still features plenty of fighters carrying significant extra weight.

The Science Behind Rogan’s Criticism

There’s legitimate science backing Rogan’s perspective. Excess body fat can limit mobility, reduce stamina, and slow reaction time – all critical factors in high-level fighting.

I’ve watched countless heavyweight fights where competitors gas out after just one round of action. The difference between a conditioned heavyweight and an unconditioned one becomes painfully obvious in championship rounds.

“These guys are professional athletes getting paid six and seven figures,” Rogan emphasized. “There’s no excuse for not being in the best shape possible.”

Fan Reactions to Rogan’s Comments

UFC fans seem divided on Rogan’s take. Many agree that the heavyweight division could benefit from higher fitness standards, while others point out that power and size are legitimate strategic advantages that sometimes come with a less athletic appearance.

One fan commented on social media: “Derrick Lewis might not have a six-pack, but he’s knocked out more UFC heavyweights than anyone. Results matter more than looks.”

Is a New Era Coming for UFC Heavyweights?

With fighters like Aspinall and Gane representing a new breed of heavyweight, we might be witnessing the evolution Rogan is calling for. Jon Jones’ move up to heavyweight also brought a new level of athleticism to the division.

The days of the 265-pound behemoth who gasses out after five minutes might be numbered as the competitive landscape shifts toward more well-rounded athletes.

What do you think? Should UFC heavyweights focus more on conditioning, or is there still room in the division for the big-bellied knockout artists? The debate continues, but one thing’s for sure – Joe Rogan isn’t holding back his opinions.

What This Means for Future Heavyweight Contenders

Aspiring UFC heavyweights might want to take note. As the division evolves and the competition gets fiercer, showing up in peak physical condition could become as important as power and technique.

For fighters looking to catch Rogan’s eye (and approval), the message is clear: power is important, but so is athleticism, and the days of getting by on size alone may be coming to an end.

Source: Vox Media