Joe Rogan is extremely optimistic about a rising star in the UFC whose record stands at an impressive 9-1, and he believes this fighter could be the future of mixed martial arts. As a seasoned commentator for the UFC, Rogan has had the unique opportunity to observe many up-and-coming talents throughout his extensive career ringside. While he has seen some promising fighters fail to realize their potential on the grandest stage of MMA, he has also witnessed others soar to remarkable heights.
In particular, Rogan is confident that this middleweight contender will belong to the latter group as his career progresses.
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Rogan has identified Ateba Gautier, who has gained considerable attention in the UFC this year. After successfully securing a contract via Dana White’s Contender Series in 2024, Gautier, nicknamed ‘The Silent Assassin,’ has made a flawless entry into the Octagon. This fighter, hailing from the same region as Francis Ngannou, is often referred to as the middleweight equivalent of the former heavyweight champion due to his imposing physique, incredible strength, and ability to finish fights decisively.
This was clearly evident in his last bout, where Gautier dominated Tre’ston Vines at UFC 320. With three first-round stoppages in just his initial three fights, the 23-year-old has averaged an astonishing fight time of only two minutes and eight seconds per match since joining the promotion.
Rogan has certainly taken note of Gautier’s potential, going so far as to declare him the "future" of MMA during a recent podcast episode. "Ateba Gautier. This guy is from Cameroon. Oh, he’s f—— terrifying," remarked Rogan while speaking with comedian Shane Gillis on The Joe Rogan Experience. He continued to praise Gautier’s attributes, saying, "He’s 185 pounds, six-foot-four, built like a Greek god, and he dominates everyone. Everyone just gets smoked."
Rogan elaborated on Gautier’s skills, emphasizing his "terrifying power, super speed, excellent technique — everything." He concluded by affirming, "That guy’s the future. He’s the future."
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Joe Rogan asserts that Ateba Gautier represents the "future" of MMA. What do you think? 🤔
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Moreover, Gautier is not the only fighter catching Rogan's eye. He has also expressed admiration for Dakota Ditcheva, a standout competitor in the PFL who continues to excel, maintaining an unblemished record of 15-0 in her professional career. In November 2024, Ditcheva silenced critics who questioned her dominance over the PFL roster by delivering a crushing defeat to former UFC contender Taila Santos, a fighter many believed should have won against Valentina Shevchenko in a previous matchup.
During a recent episode of his podcast, Rogan spoke highly of the British athlete. "Most of her fights end in knockouts. She specializes in Muay Thai, but she’s also incredibly attractive—real fit and slender. And then she just demolishes her opponents!"
Rogan shared his enthusiasm as highlights of Ditcheva's fights were shown, stating, "Look at that knee to the body. She’s stunning. If you saw her out at a club, you’d think, ‘Wow, she looks really fit. Maybe she’s a crossfitter or something.’ Then she just destroys you," he added, underscoring the contrast between her demeanor and her fighting prowess.
