Joe Rogan has finally opened up about the departure of Mike Goldberg, his long-time play-by-play partner in the UFC broadcast booth, at the tail-end of last year.
“I will stay in contact with Mike [Goldberg] until the day I die,” Rogan said on the ‘Fight Companion’ podcast when asked if he’d miss the play-by-play announcer after spotting him in the crowd at UFC Fight Night 103 on Sunday night. “Mike is my friend and…the UFC was sold to WME and they have their own thoughts on what they want to do and…I will be friends with Mike Goldberg ’til the day I die. I love that guy.”
Rogan was then asked why there no mention of the fact that Goldberg was leaving during his final broadcast at UFC 207, but he says his hands were tied.
“I didn’t know what to do man, they didn’t want to [give him a send-off].”
The veteran color commentator then went on to reveal that the only reason he’s still with the UFC is down to his long-standing friendship with UFC President Dana White.
“I don’t know whats going on in terms of organisations. I literally know Dana, and Dana is the reason why I’m still there.
“I’ve met Ari [Emanuel]. Very nice guy, very smart guy, very successful guy. I wish them all the best. I’m rooting for them 100%, obviously – I’m still with the company, I love them. It’s an honor to work for the UFC.”
That being said, just a few seconds later Rogan strongly emphasized that if White wasn’t there, he’d be gone too.
“Ohhh yeessss! HE’s the only reason I’m still there,” Rogan admitted.
Watch the full JRE Fight Companion podcast for UFC Fight Night 103 below.
