Joe Rogan, the iconic voice of MMA and host of the globally popular The Joe Rogan Experience, has found himself at the center of controversy after being named one of Sports Illustrated’s most influential figures in boxing for 2024. The decision has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits, with some lauding his cultural influence and others dismissing the move as a misguided attempt to stir the pot.
Sports Illustrated’s list under scrutiny: Why Rogan?
The 2024 edition of Sports Illustrated’s year-end list brought together prominent figures shaping the boxing landscape, such as heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, promoter Eddie Hearn, and social media sensation-turned-boxer Jake Paul. However, the inclusion of Joe Rogan, whose career is primarily rooted in MMA, has left many perplexed.
ACD MMA, a combat sports-focused page on X (formerly Twitter), broke the news with a post that read: “Jake Paul and Joe Rogan have been named by Sports Illustrated as two of the ‘most influential and powerful people in Boxing in 2024.’” The post swiftly ignited a firestorm of reactions, ranging from praise for Rogan’s ability to popularize combat sports to outright skepticism of his influence in boxing.
One fan commented, “Rogan’s impact on MMA is undeniable, but his ties to boxing are flimsy at best.” Another quipped, “The podcaster is influential, sure—but in boxing? This feels like a reach.” Such reactions underscore the divide between Rogan’s supporters, who see him as a bridge between combat sports audiences, and detractors, who view this move as more symbolic than substantive.
Bridging combat sports: Rogan’s role in boxing’s evolution
While Rogan’s direct involvement in boxing is limited, his influence on combat sports culture is far-reaching. Through his platform, The Joe Rogan Experience, he has hosted luminaries like Mike Tyson, Canelo Alvarez, and Claressa Shields, offering them a stage to connect with millions of listeners globally. These conversations have often delved into pivotal boxing moments, technical nuances, and the future of the sport. Critics argue, however, that merely discussing boxing does not equate to shaping it.
Supporters of Rogan’s inclusion highlight his ability to introduce boxing to a younger, tech-savvy demographic that might otherwise remain disengaged from the sport. For instance, his discussions of Jake Paul’s unconventional rise and his breakdowns of fights featuring stars like Tyson Fury and Artur Beterbiev have resonated with MMA fans, many of whom are exploring boxing for the first time.
“Joe Rogan is a cultural bridge, connecting MMA and boxing audiences in a way few others can,” one fan defended. This crossover appeal, they argue, is invaluable as combat sports increasingly converge in today’s entertainment landscape.
Does influence require direct involvement?
Despite the arguments in favor of Rogan’s inclusion, critics remain unconvinced. They contend that boxing’s ecosystem—comprising promoters, athletes, and governing bodies—relies on more than just media exposure to thrive. Figures like Eddie Hearn and Turki Al-Sheikh actively shape the sport’s direction through funding, matchmaking, and event promotions. Rogan, by contrast, operates as an observer rather than a participant.
“If podcasting is enough to make the list,” one detractor noted, “then why stop at boxing? Rogan occasionally mentions the NFL and NBA—does that make him influential in those sports too?” Such sentiments reflect a broader skepticism about how influence is defined in modern sports.
What does this mean for boxing and combat sports?
The debate over Rogan’s inclusion sheds light on a larger trend: the evolving nature of influence in combat sports. As the lines between MMA, boxing, and mainstream media blur, figures like Rogan, who straddle these worlds, are becoming increasingly important. Whether his recognition by Sports Illustrated is warranted or not, it underscores the growing role of media personalities in driving the narratives of traditional sports.
With boxing facing challenges in retaining younger audiences, Rogan’s ability to spark conversations across platforms could be seen as a strategic asset. His discussions on fighters like Artur Beterbiev or Canelo Alvarez often introduce these athletes to a broader audience, potentially drawing new fans to the sport. However, whether this indirect influence is enough to place him alongside boxing’s top power brokers remains a contentious issue.
Some viewers see Sports Illustrated’s decision as a nod to the increasing convergence of sports and entertainment. “Boxing is evolving,” one commentator noted. “You need figures like Rogan who can connect the dots between sports, culture, and entertainment. It’s not just about who’s in the ring anymore—it’s about who’s bringing people to watch.”
A moment of reflection for combat sports
As the debate continues, the backlash against Rogan’s inclusion might prompt publications like Sports Illustrated to clarify their selection criteria. Is influence measured by direct action within the sport, or by the ability to grow its cultural relevance? This question will likely shape how future lists are curated.
For boxing, Rogan’s recognition could hint at a broader evolution. As the sport seeks to maintain its relevance in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape, figures with crossover appeal might play a crucial role in its survival and growth. Whether Rogan is the right person for that role is still up for debate.
What’s certain, however, is that Rogan’s presence on this list has ignited discussions about the future of combat sports and what it truly means to be influential in today’s interconnected world. As combat sports continue to adapt, personalities like Rogan may become even more critical in shaping their trajectory.
