Joe Rogan apologizes to Canadian people after UFC 315 rejection turned controversial 

UFC veteran Joe Rogan shares his reasons for not being willing to go to Canada for UFC 315 despite liking the fans.

Joe Rogan apologizes to Canadian people after UFC 315 rejection turned controversial 

Joe Rogan likes the Canadian people but not the government (via Imago)

UFC 315 is set to happen at the Bell Centre in Montreal, featuring Belal Muhammad versus Jack Della Maddalena. The event marks Muhammad’s first welterweight title defense, facing a rising Australian contender. Ahead of the event, Joe Rogan caused controversy by declining to attend the event. Unsurprisingly, it was blown out of proportion, prompting the legendary commentator to clarify his reasons. 

In the viral video, Rogan claimed he’d rather visit Russia than go to a country like Canada right now. Unsurprisingly, Canadian UFC fans were upset by the remark and quickly expressed their disappointment across various social media platforms. After receiving heavy criticism, Rogan clarified his comments, stating he loves the Canadian people deeply and meant no offense.

I was joking around, first of all but I do not go to Canada anymore, it’s because of the government. It has nothing to do with the people, I think the people are lovely. Canadian people are 20 percent less douche than Americans.. Montreal is amazing, Toronto is amazing, I love Canada. 

Joe Rogan via JRE #2297

Other than his UFC commentary, Rogan likes to invite guests to his popular podcast show and discuss all kinds of topics. In the past, he has been very vocal about criticism towards the Canadian government. He has publicly expressed concerns about the Canadian government’s handling of COVID-19 restrictions, particularly around mandates and personal freedoms. 

The UFC commentator has referenced laws and policies that he feels may restrict open dialogue, such as compelled speech laws. Being a champion of freedom of speech, Rogan’s stance is rooted in his strong support for free expression. While many Canadian viewers appreciate his voice, others simply rejected his claims.

When the Canadian UFC champion impressed Joe Rogan 

Georges St-Pierre, a proud Canadian UFC champion, is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists in history. After retiring in 2013 as the reigning welterweight champion, fans doubted whether he would ever return to competition again. Surprising the MMA world, GSP came back in 2017 to challenge Michael Bisping for the UFC middleweight title at UFC 217.

Joe Rogan talks about Canadian MMA fighter Georges St-Pierre
Joe Rogan talks about Canadian MMA fighter Georges St-Pierre (via Imago/X)

Displaying his trademark discipline and strategy, he defeated Bisping by submission, becoming a two-division champion and solidifying his legendary status. Joe Rogan has always been a huge fan of GSP and was awestruck by his ability to come back after such a long time. He complimented St-Pierre’s discipline in a passionate speech on his podcast. 

It’s so impressive that a guy like Georges St-Pierre takes four years off and comes back better than ever. He never stopped training. He’s a martial artists, he is not just a fighter…He trains because he enjoys it. He looks as good if not better than he did when he was the welterweight champion of the world.

Joe Rogan via JRE 

Compared to others, Georges St-Pierre stands out for his consistency, adaptability, and clean legacy. Unlike many champions, he avenged every loss and left the sport on top. He never failed a drug test, dominated the title challengers, and evolved with the sport. His resume, professionalism, and longevity eclipse most other greats.

Joe Rogan’s most controversial takes about politics 

Due to his following and huge platform, Joe Rogan has often found himself in the middle of various controversies. He has stirred debates by questioning mainstream political narratives, often criticizing both major parties and supporting outsider candidates. He has faced backlash for discussing election integrity, vaccine mandates, and media bias, arguing that open conversation is essential even on divisive issues.

Joe Rogan's controversial moments
Joe Rogan’s controversial moments (via Forbes)

Rogan once suggested young, healthy people might not need vaccines, a take that drew sharp criticism from public health officials and mainstream commentators. Though not aligning with any party, he’s criticized Democrats for censorship. He has mocked the Republicans for hypocrisy, urging transparency and independent thinking over blind political loyalty or party-driven agendas.

Related: Joe Rogan Kids: How many children does the UFC color commentator have?