Joe Rogan Sings Praise of Khabib Nurmagomedov Debating ‘Boring’ MMA Style With Michael ‘Venom’ Page

UFC commentator Joe Rogan brings up Khabib Nurmagomedov while debating the importance of wrestling with Michael Venom Page.

Joe Rogan Sings Praise of Khabib Nurmagomedov Debating ‘Boring’ MMA Style With Michael ‘Venom’ Page

Joe Rogan and Michael Venom Page debate the dominance of wrestler like Khabib Nurmagomedov (via X, Forbes)

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Among the many disciplines showcased in the octagon, wrestling and grappling remain foundational components that often determine the outcome of high-level contests. UFC commentator Joe Rogan recently highlighted former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s expertise and dominance in this area while talking to UFC middleweight contender Michael ‘Venom’ Page.

Nurmagomedov’s career is widely recognized for its demonstration of control and dominance on the ground. Unlike typical wrestlers who may prioritize defense and positional safety, his approach emphasizes constant pressure and the ability to neutralize opponents’ offense. He used these techniques to dominate the likes of Justin Gaethje, Conor McGregor, and Dustin Poirier.

Rogan is popular for hosting multiple MMA fighters and personalities from around the world on his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. He recently hosted MVP on the latest episode of his podcast and spoke about a variety of topics. However, he had a strong reply to Page when the middleweight undermined the grappling prowess of fighters while trying to prove that strikers are more entertaining.

Even though I am a fan of yours, if a wrestler who had that boring style took you down and held you down for three rounds and won a decision, I would be like damn, he did it. Because he can’t do it any other way, if he can’t stand up with you, he can get ****** up, and he can take you down anytime, why would he ever get you up?

Joe Rogan via Powerful JRE

Rogan underscored the importance of wrestling as a mixed martial art while he explained how a wrestler would match up against a fighter like MVP. He also criticized Page’s views on wrestling-heavy approaches, which he believed undermined the entertainment factor of the fight. However, while acknowledging that the art of pressuring wrestling is not everyone’s cup of tea, Rogan mentioned Nurmagomedov as an example.

Where, then, you have guys like Khabib, he gets you down, then you are getting ****** up. He’s crushing your legs in between his legs; he’s weighing in on you. But some guys are not good enough; they are still fighting. There are guys that are world-class level that are not gonna be world champions, but they might be able to beat a guy who might become a world champion.

Joe Rogan via Powerful JRE

In the context of his career, MVP’s fights illustrate the challenges faced by striking specialists against opponents with strong wrestling foundations. While his striking has earned him numerous victories and highlight-reel finishes during his days in Bellator, his performance in grappling exchanges remains a potential vulnerability, which was noticed in his first UFC loss against Ian Garry at UFC 303.

Joe Rogan’s analysis highlights how grappling often defines championship success. He has noted that while Khabib’s ground game represents pure dominance, many wrestlers rely on safer, less aggressive tactics. The comparison highlights why grappling remains a crucial factor in MMA and why Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the sport.

The most recent example of Rogan’s comments came at UFC 319, where Khamzat Chimaev dominated Dricus Du Plessis by holding him in a crucifix hold for almost the entirety of 25 minutes to win the middleweight championship. While the performance was not the most entertaining for some fans, it showed the relentless control a seasoned wrestler could have over their opponent.

Joe Rogan and Michael ‘Venom’ Page talk about the Khamzat Chimaev vs Dricus Du Plessis fight at UFC 319

Khamzat Chimaev’s championship victory over Dricus Du Plessis marked a major milestone in his rapid rise through the UFC ranks. Known for his relentless wrestling pressure and finishing instincts, Chimaev approached this bout with a noticeably more strategic game plan. His performance reflected a fighter evolving beyond aggression, showcasing a deeper understanding of fight management and strategy.

Joe Rogan and Michael 'Venom' Page discuss the UFC 319 main event
Joe Rogan and Michael ‘Venom’ Page discuss the UFC 319 main event (via MMA Fighting, YouTube)

Joe Rogan and Michael ‘Venom’ Page recently analyzed the fight on The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan’s perspective on the bout emphasized the intelligence behind Chimaev’s strategy. He believed that the approach highlighted that victory at the championship level often comes down to calculated decision-making rather than sheer aggression.

I think they just wanted the win because it’s such a big deal. Khamzat finally got the shot at the title. What is the clearest and most intelligent way of winning? If you’re betting a billion dollars on this fight, what’s the best way to victory? Just take him down, hold him, punch him a few times, do whatever the **** you want to do, but get that title.

Joe Rogan via Powerful JRE

Chimaev showcased patience, adaptability, and tactical control to secure the title against Du Plessis. Joe Rogan pointed out that such calculated decision-making defines success at the highest level of the sport. By combining discipline with dominance, Chimaev proved that fight IQ and composure can be just as vital as raw power in the evolution of a modern UFC champion.

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