UFC fighters, MMA personalities react to recent Joe Rogan, Spotify controversies
Joe Rogan headlines have extended far past the MMA circle in recent weeks with the UFC commentator, comedian and popular podcast host finding himself in the midst of multiple controversies.
After Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, and others, removed their music from Spotify in protest of what they say is COVID-19 misinformation on the “Joe Rogan Experience” podcast, a montage video of Rogan using the N-word resurfaced online this past week.
In response to each controversy, Rogan posted a video explaining himself and saying what he will do to improve himself in the future. For COVID-19 conversations, Rogan vowed to book a more wide-ranging guest list. For the racial slurs used in past episodes of his show, Rogan apologized, though said his words were taken out of context.
Spotify CEO Daniel Ek released a statement Monday that said the company will not be “silencing” Rogan. Ek also announced Spotify will commit $100 million toward development of content from marginalized groups.
In the wake of discussions pertaining to Rogan and Spotify, many members of the UFC and MMA community have weighed in. Check out some of those reactions below.