It’s trilogy time! UFC 286 goes down this Saturday night, March 18 at the 02 Arena in London, England. With a notable and fan-favorite commentator like Joe Rogan set to miss out, let’s take a look at the broadcasting team for the night.
Notably, UFC 286 main card will air on ESPN and PPV for residents in the U.S. starting at 5 p.m. ET. Moreover, the preliminary card will air on ESPNews and ESPN+ starting at 3 p.m. ET. Similarly, the early prelims, are likely to begin at 1 p.m. ET and will be on ESPN+.
THE TRILOGY FOR THE TITLE!! 🏆@Leon_EdwardsMMA and @Usman84kg go again Saturday night at #UFC286!
[ 1pmET Prelims | 5pmET Main Card | Live on @ESPNPlus PPV https://t.co/eeWr8UlILP ] pic.twitter.com/UcYVECDTtu
— UFC (@ufc) March 16, 2023
As for the commentary desk, we will see renowned color commentator Jon Anik make his return alongside UFC Hall of Famers and former UFC champions Michael Bisping and Daniel ‘DC’ Cormier. As is the norm, Joe Rogan will be unavailable as it is yet another international event.
Other than that we also have Megan Olivi, who will be conducting pre- and post-fight interviews backstage with some of the athletes on the card. Moreover, you can expect to see some real-time updates for the event from her as well. Lastly, Bruce Buffer will reprise his role as the Octagon announcer for UFC 286.
What is the real reason for Joe Rogan missing UFC 286?
As mentioned on previous occasions, Joe Rogan has missed a number of events outside North America. As such, it is safe to assume that the veteran UFC commentator is likely missing the event due to his busy schedule involving podcasting, standup commentary, and other obligations. Similarly, UFC President Dana White who was in Boston for Hollywood Fight Night remains a doubt.
Currently, Rogan is on tour for his ‘Comedy Mothership’ stand-up show in Austin, Texas. Along with some of his close friends, Joe will be performing on stage as part of the tour. This week, the show will be celebrating its one-week anniversary on Friday, March 17, and Saturday, March 18.
Austin! This Friday and Saturday we’re celebrating our one week anniversary! Tickets go on sale today at 12pm CST https://t.co/Fl4CW5RFsF @atxmothership pic.twitter.com/DBasj5ArMQ
— Joe Rogan (@joerogan) March 15, 2023
Despite his absence, one can be sure that Rogan will be keeping tabs on the big fight at UFC 286. Speaking to UFC Light heavyweight champ, Jamahal Hill on the Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show 136, the podcaster shared his thoughts on the showdown. According to Joe, Leon Edwards is one of the most impressive fighters while training with pads.
Commending his sharp and fluid striking, Joe had high praises for Leon. At the same time, Joe believes that Kamaru Usman is the Nightmare for a reason. However, a cause for concern will be the former champ’s knees and the pain he has been experiencing there for a long time. With big strengths and weaknesses for both fighters, Rogan believes that the fight will be a truly ‘intriguing’ affair.
