The year 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary for combat sports, delivering iconic moments that fans will remember for years to come. Highlights include Max Holloway’s jaw-dropping knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, the visually stunning UFC Sphere: Noché event, and Mike Tyson’s sensational return to the boxing ring after more than two decades. Additionally, rising stars in both boxing and MMA have set new standards, fueling anticipation for the year ahead. With record-breaking performances, groundbreaking milestones, and historic achievements, 2024 has been a landmark year.
As the year comes to a close, the spotlight shifts to the individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping the combat sports landscape. Sports Illustrated has unveiled its highly anticipated year-end list, recognizing the most influential figures in boxing and combat sports. While familiar names such as Tyson Fury, Jake Paul, and Saudi Arabian promoter Turki Al-Sheikh made the list, one inclusion sparked widespread discussion: Joe Rogan.
Rogan’s recognition came as a surprise to many, considering his limited direct involvement in boxing throughout the year. This news, shared by MMA page ACD MMA on X (formerly Twitter), included the caption: “Jake Paul and Joe Rogan have been named by Sports Illustrated as two of ‘the most influential and powerful people in Boxing in 2024.’” Alongside Rogan and Paul, other notable names featured on the list include Eddie Hearn, Artur Beterbiev, Mike Tyson, Tyson Fury, Usyk, and Canelo Alvarez.
Jake Paul and Joe Rogan have been named by Sports Illustrated as two of “the most influential and powerful people in Boxing in 2024”
Other names on the list include Eddie Hearn, Artur Beterbiev, Mike Tyson, Tyson Fury, Usyk, Canelo and Turki Alalshikh pic.twitter.com/OIXZVS6FyL
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) December 24, 2024
This unexpected inclusion quickly ignited debates among fans and pundits alike. While some argued for Rogan’s undeniable influence in combat sports, others questioned whether his impact extended to boxing. The announcement triggered a flurry of reactions online, with fans expressing disbelief, humor, and passionate defenses of Rogan’s influence.
Rogan’s journey in combat sports is widely known. Beginning in his teenage years, he trained in martial arts, excelling in Taekwondo and amateur kickboxing before transitioning to television. His long-standing association with the UFC, initially as a backstage interviewer and later as a full-time commentator, solidified his status as one of MMA’s most recognizable voices. However, critics pointed out that his contributions to boxing are minimal. While he has featured legendary boxers like Mike Tyson and Claressa Shields on his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, his discussions often focus on MMA.
Fans highlighted this discrepancy, questioning whether Sports Illustrated’s decision was genuine or a publicity stunt. Some commented on Rogan’s limited presence in the boxing world, while others joked about his inclusion, citing his primary role as a podcaster. One fan sarcastically noted, “Joe Rogan, one of the best boxing commentators. Who could forget when he commentated…” followed by humorous remarks. Another fan observed that Rogan’s commitments to his podcast and comedy ventures often keep him from attending even international UFC events, let alone boxing matches.
Criticism of Sports Illustrated’s list extended beyond Rogan, with some fans dismissing it outright as a “joke” or “pathetic.” The broader debate centers on whether Rogan’s support for boxing through his platform is sufficient to warrant such recognition. Critics argue that if mere mentions or discussions on a podcast are enough, Rogan could equally be considered influential in other sports, such as football or baseball.
This controversy underscores a larger question: what constitutes influence in sports? Does Rogan’s platform and discussions about boxing justify his inclusion, or is it an overreach by Sports Illustrated? The conversation remains open, inviting fans and commentators to weigh in on whether this recognition reflects genuine impact or serves as a media strategy.