Joe Rogan Advocates for Kamaru Usman’s Title Shot Despite Recent Losing Streak
Joe Rogan, the iconic UFC commentator and podcast host, has voiced his belief that former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman deserves another shot at the UFC title, despite his recent three-fight losing skid. Rogan’s endorsement comes as the welterweight division heats up, with Belal Muhammad currently holding the championship and undefeated contender Shavkat Rakhmonov waiting in the wings.
Belal Muhammad captured the UFC welterweight belt earlier this year by defeating Leon Edwards at UFC 304. As he prepares for his first title defense, the speculation about his next opponent is at an all-time high. While Rakhmonov, an undefeated rising star, is seen as the frontrunner for the next title shot, Rogan believes Usman’s legacy and past accomplishments make him a worthy candidate.
On a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan made a compelling argument for why Usman should be next in line. “I think they give him Kamaru [Usman], that’s the big money fight, it’s the smart fight. They owe Kamaru for Kamaru taking Khamzat [Chimaev] on 10 days’ notice,” Rogan stated, referencing Usman’s recent short-notice fight against Chimaev.
Rogan emphasized that Usman’s willingness to step up and fight one of the most dangerous fighters in the world on short notice should not be overlooked. “The guy trained ten days for one of the scariest motherf***ers on Earth. On Earth! I say you gotta give it to Kamaru because I think Kamaru earned it from that alone,” Rogan continued.
Rogan pointed out that Usman, now 37 years old, is in the twilight of his career, and opportunities for another title shot are dwindling. “You don’t have many more years of Kamaru now, he’s like 37…I say give him another shot,” Rogan urged, suggesting that the UFC capitalize on Usman’s remaining prime years.
While Rakhmonov is undoubtedly a formidable challenger, Rogan believes that each of his victories only adds to his growing legend. Meanwhile, Usman’s experience and past dominance in the division provide a unique appeal that the UFC could leverage for a blockbuster title fight.
Usman’s last victory came against Colby Covington at UFC 268, where he won via unanimous decision. However, since that win, Usman has faced setbacks, losing back-to-back title fights to Leon Edwards, including a devastating head kick knockout at UFC 278. Despite these losses, Rogan maintains that Usman’s contributions to the sport and his warrior spirit merit another shot at reclaiming the belt.
With Belal Muhammad, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Kamaru Usman all vying for the welterweight throne, the division is more competitive than ever. Rogan’s advocacy for Usman highlights the complexities of matchmaking in the UFC, where legacy, marketability, and merit all play pivotal roles.
Whether the UFC opts to grant Usman another title shot or chooses to go with Rakhmonov, one thing is certain: the welterweight division is on the cusp of delivering some of the most exciting fights in recent memory.