Rogan Questions Jones' Influence On Steveson

Joe Rogan questioned whether Jon Jones gave Gable Steveson a false sense of invincibility before the Olympic wrestler's shocking 12-second knockout loss at UFC 331.

Steveson entered his bout against Sean Sharaf in Los Angeles as a minus-3000 favorite but was knocked out cold in the opening exchange, according to MMA Mania. With Jones in his corner, the two-time NCAA champion appeared to believe his wrestling pedigree alone would carry him to victory.

What Rogan Told Sharaf About The Upset

Rogan addressed the issue directly on his podcast with Sharaf as a guest. "That's the problem, you're hanging out with a guy who's the GOAT and you start thinking you're the next guy," Rogan said. "You might be. You could be, if you do the right things. But if you believe it before it happens? You have to be cautious but also confident."

The UFC commentator praised Sharaf for delivering one of 2026's signature upsets, telling him the finish elevated the entire sport. Rogan had considered Steveson a potential all-time great based on his Olympic gold medal and the historical success of elite wrestlers like Daniel Cormier in MMA.

Steveson now faces questions about whether he will rebuild his career or walk away as he did from the NFL and WWE. Opponents will no longer be distracted by his credentials or the presence of Jones in his corner, forcing the heavyweight to prove himself on skill alone. No date has been announced for Steveson's return.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Joe Rogan questions whether Jon Jones made Gable Steveson too confident: ‘You start thinking you’re the next guy’