Joe Rogan has stirred a fresh debate in the MMA world once again. In a new episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast released on October 26, 2025, the longtime UFC commentator revisited his “no standup” rule while speaking with British fighter Michael “Venom” Page. Joe Rogan believes referees should never help fighters stand up after a takedown. His comments quickly went viral online, especially when he named Khabib Nurmagomedov as the only fighter who made grappling powerful, exciting, and effective inside the octagon.
Joe Rogan explains his “no standup” rule and praises Khabib Nurmagomedov
During the conversation, Joe Rogan told Michael Page that grappling is about skill, not referee resets. “That’s why I say no standups ever,” Rogan said. “If you get taken down, you’ve got to find your way up. If you can’t, tough luck.”He explained that fights already begin on the feet, which gives strikers their fair chance. On the ground, grapplers should earn every position without help.Michael Page agreed but said some fighters just hold their opponent down and wait. Rogan said that kind of fighting often happens when a fighter lacks finishing skills. “If he can’t stand with you but can take you down anytime, that’s still fighting,” he added.
Joe Rogan then brought up Khabib Nurmagomedov as a rare example of a grappler who attacked from start to finish. “When Khabib gets you down, you’re getting smashed. He’s crushing your legs and choking you,” Rogan said.He reminded fans that Khabib finished top fighters like Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje in his final three fights before retiring in 2020. Joe Rogan said Khabib’s approach showed how dominant grappling could be when used to end fights rather than just control them.
Joe Rogan’s wild ideas for changing UFC rules
Joe Rogan has also shared other rule changes he’d like to see in MMA. He once said he would remove the cage completely. “I got some wacky ideas,” Rogan said. “I don’t even think they should fight in a cage.” He suggested fights take place on a large mat, like a basketball court, with a warning track that deducts points if fighters move too far back.Also Read: Manny Pacquiao Vs Floyd Mayweather Jr. 2026 Rematch On Netflix? Conor McGregor And Lomachenko Rumors Add New TwistJoe Rogan believes the cage gives strikers an unfair edge because they can use it to stand up. His “no standup” rule and cage-free vision may never happen, but his ideas keep fans talking and his praise for Khabib Nurmagomedov reminds everyone how true grappling mastery looks inside the UFC.
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