UFC returns this weekend to the “Fight Capital” in Nevada with UFC 320, following a brief tour to Australia. Joe Rogan, the familiar voice of the Octagon, joins the commentary team once again. Although the Australian stop failed to generate much excitement, the upcoming pay-per-view has already set the MMA world buzzing. The headline bout will feature reigning light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev defending his title against former champion Alex Pereira in a highly anticipated rematch.

During their previous clash at UFC 313 in March, Ankalaev dominated Alex Pereira with precise striking and claimed the belt. However, critics called the result a “robbery,” and the commentary team, including Joe Rogan, amplified the controversy, drawing accusations of bias from fans. Now, the UFC brings the action back to the T-Mobile Arena, and the commentary team returns with it. Rogan, Jon Anik, and Daniel Cormier promise the same mix of drama and insight that fans have come to expect.

Recently, MMA Fighting’s Instagram announced: “Joe Rogan joins Jon Anik and Daniel Cormier once again to call UFC 320 PPV card headlined by Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira 2.” After a 49-day hiatus, Rogan returns to the commentary desk, having last called the action at UFC 319.

Despite the electric star power and high-stakes showdown, fans actively voiced frustration over the UFC’s decision, questioning whether the familiar commentary team can rise to the occasion once again. Many remained neutral about the fight card itself; however, this time, they have scrutinized the commentary team. Even the so-called “ultimate voice of MMA,” Joe Rogan, could escape the reproach.

Fans slam UFC and Dana White as Joe Rogan returns to the commentary desk

Fans didn’t hold back after UFC 313’s commentary, with one remarking, “Replace Rogan and DC with Felder and Sanko.” However, UFC’s main desk has long drawn scrutiny. Critics first targeted the broadcast team years ago, particularly during UFC 259, the electrifying clash between Israel Adesanya and Jan Blachowicz. That night, Blachowicz toppled Adesanya in his quest for the light heavyweight crown, and Rogan quipped, “Imagine if that was a real wrestler,” which sparked fan ire.

Viewers accused the seasoned commentators not only of favoritism but also of over-hyping moments and recycling catchphrases like “Merab is an absolute marauder.” One fan lamented on MMA Fighting: “Finally I get to be reminded every five minutes of calf kicks.” UFC 313 provided more fodder for criticism. While previewing the strawweight bout between Amanda Lemos and Iasmin Lucindo, Joe Rogan mistakenly referred to one of the fighters as a “young man,” drawing swift attention from the viewers.

In the main event, Magomed Ankalaev largely dominated Alex Pereira with precise striking, yet Joe Rogan often commented against the action, suggesting Ankalaev struggled. Fans recalled his line: “Ankalaev’s leg is hurt, he can’t take any more leg kicks,” a sentiment echoed by another: “Joe Rogan bias trying to become fight maker after his fav fighter wins.” Rogan has spent over three decades in UFC commentary. He started as a backstage interviewer, and then, when the Fertitta brothers and Dana White arrived, they promoted him to the front row of the broadcast booth.

Over the years, he has witnessed the Octagon evolve firsthand. Once a household name with Fear Factor, Joe Rogan chose UFC not for fame but out of a genuine love for the fight game. Today, with an estimated fortune of over $200 million and multiple business ventures, Rogan no longer needs UFC commentary for money. He limits himself to U.S. PPV events, most recently calling UFC 319, the Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus Du Plessis fight.

Fans voiced their opinions once more with his return: “It is a USA venue, so Rogan usually does them anyway.” Another added: “The title leads one to believe Joe has been absent from the UFC, but he now only does US PPVs.” With the upcoming event on the horizon, what’s your take on the current commentary team? Do you feel changes are necessary, or is it simply the result of doing the same job for years? Share your thoughts below.