Michael Bisping Replaces Joe Rogan From UFC 271 Commentary Team Amidst the Ongoing Spotify Controversy

Joe Rogan will not be seen at UFC 271. The event is set to go down in a few hours’ time and the most recognisable UFC announcer will not be seen at the commentary booth. According to a report from Mike Bohn of MMA Junkie, Michael Bisping will replace Rogan for the PPV broadcast.

The report states that a UFC spokesperson broke the news to Aaron Bronsteter of TSN. As for the reason of Rogan’s unavailability, UFC reportedly had a scheduling conflict with the 54-year old. The report further stated that Joe Rogan will be back at the desk for UFC 272 on March 5.

#UFC271 commentary team set: Joe Rogan won’t call event; Michael Bisping makes PPV debut (via @MikeBohnMMA) https://t.co/pA6k3Yn8o3

— MMA Junkie (@MMAjunkie) February 11, 2022

In absence of the host of ‘The Joe Rogan Experience’, former middleweight champion Michael Bisping will step in. He will join colour commentator Jon Anik and play by play announcer Daniel Cormier. Bisping is considered amongst one of the analysts of the game alongwith Dominic Cruz.

UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has backed Joe Rogan despite controversy

UFC 271 main eventer Israel Adesanya spoke up to support Joe Rogan. During the press-conference for the event, the Stylebender called Rogan ‘humble, coolest and nicest person in the fight game.’ He also stated that people should ignore ‘the noise’.

Israel Adesanya on Joe Rogan#UFC271 pic.twitter.com/XQmPHy4AbF

— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) February 11, 2022

Adesanya’s comments came on heels of ‘racism’ controversy. A video of Rogan using a racial slur continuously has immerged in the last few days. As a result, his podcast has faced a lot of backlash from celebrities of various fields. Hence, his absence from the marquee UFC event may not be surprising afterall.

The stats are in ☑️

[ #UFC271 | TOMORROW | Live on E+ PPV | B2YB @LoveHempUK ] pic.twitter.com/RGzML9fHTY

— UFC (@ufc) February 12, 2022

UFC 271 main event will feature a huge rematch in the middleweight division. The aforementioned Israel Adesanya will go up against Robert Whittaker. In the co-main, Tai Tuivasa will face the hometown hero, Derrick Lewis. Fans can buy the event exclusively on ESPN+. Here’s everything you need to know about the event.