Conor Mcgregor. On a recent episode of his podcast, Rogan expressed doubts about McGregor’s return to the UFC. He said, “I don’t know if Conor is ever gonna fight again,” citing concerns about McGregor’s partying habits
Lifestyle concerns: Rogan pointed out that McGregor has been “partying real hard” and mentioned the fighter’s admission to using cocaine during a recent court case.
• Potential CTE link: Rogan suggested that Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) could be a factor in McGregor’s behavior. He explained that fighters who have taken a lot of damage over their careers often turn to drugs, possibly due to constant discomfort and altered brain chemistry.
• Sparring and brain trauma: Rogan highlighted the impact of McGregor’s intense training, including sparring with pro boxers and elite fighters. He emphasized that getting hit in the head repeatedly is not natural and can lead to long-term issues.
• McGregor’s recent history: The Irish fighter hasn’t competed in the UFC since July 2021, when he suffered a serious leg injury. He was scheduled to face Michael Chandler in June 2024 but had to withdraw due to a broken toe.
.• Future plans: Despite Rogan’s concerns, McGregor has hinted at future plans. He recently claimed to be in “preliminary agreements” for a boxing exhibition against Logan Paul in India, followed by a return to the UFC octagon.
• UFC’s stance: UFC CEO Dana White has suggested that if McGregor does return to the cage, it wouldn’t be until late 2025. This situation highlights the complex issues surrounding fighter health, lifestyle choices, and the long-term impacts of combat sports. While Rogan’s comments are speculative, they’ve sparked discussions about the potential links between CTE, behavior changes, and substance use in retired or aging fighters.
