UFC commentator Joe Rogan is not in favor of the UFC’s plan to host an event in an open-air venue, particularly at the White House. He has highlighted a significant issue that could pose serious risks to fighters scheduled to compete on June 14.
Construction is underway on the South Lawn of the White House to erect an octagon-shaped cage, with seating for approximately 5,000 spectators.
While UFC President Dana White has stated that the fights will proceed regardless of rain or snow, lightning is the only weather condition that would necessitate a temporary halt to the event.
Earlier in May, White mentioned that insects and flies could be a disturbance for the athletes during UFC Freedom 250 and indicated that fans would be installed near the stage to mitigate this issue.
However, Joe Rogan has raised a different, and in his view, more critical concern that requires immediate attention from the UFC.
Joe Rogan’s Concerns: Heat and Dehydration Risks for Fighters
During his podcast, Joe Rogan voiced his opposition to outdoor fighting altogether, asserting that UFC championship matches should exclusively take place in climate-controlled, air-conditioned arenas.
Rogan emphasized the need for the UFC to consider building a structure, as extreme temperatures could significantly impact fighters on June 14, given the high probability of Washington D.C. experiencing sweltering heat.
“The White House thing is odd. I don’t like the idea of fighting outside at all… I just don’t think you should compete in a world championship fight in a non-controlled environment. It should be inside an air-conditioned arena. Like, you wouldn’t ask them to play world championship basketball game outside on the sun. That would be crazy… Build a fu*king roof. You’ve got all the money in the world, right?… Build a 4,000-seat arena. Imagine if someone loses a fight because it’s too hot outside. Imagine if that becomes a factor. Imagine the dehydrated fighters.”
Despite these concerns, many fighters on the card are undergoing rigorous training camps, specifically preparing for intense heat, understanding that they may face significant challenges during their fights if the weather proves unforgiving on June 14.
Some fighters, like Justin Gaethje, have revealed they are incorporating saunas into their training sessions to acclimate to the heat for the upcoming outdoor event without air conditioning.
