Joe Rogan is staying out of Montreal this spring, saying he won’t take part in UFC 315 due to what he sees as troubling government actions in Canada. The UFC commentator and podcast giant made the decision public during a recent episode of his show.
“I don’t go to Canada anymore,” Rogan said flatly. “I’d rather go to Russia.”
Joe Rogan: “I don’t go to Canada anymore. I’d rather go to Russia.”pic.twitter.com/JJAzTCDZKo
— Department of Government Efficiency News (@DOGE__news) March 24, 2025
Rogan’s comments point to deep-seated frustration over how Canadian authorities handled past public protests, particularly the crackdown on truck drivers who opposed vaccine mandates. He has long criticized the use of state power to silence peaceful opposition.
Joe Rogan tells Canada to get their shit together and to come back to what we used to be!
He also says Pierre Poilievre makes sense. I'll take that as an endorsement!🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/YUHmnCWiZV
— Joe Anidjar (@PuckDaddy93) March 25, 2025
While some initially saw the remark as a joke, Rogan has consistently voiced opposition to Canada’s political decisions over the last few years. He clarified that his criticism is aimed at the government — not the Canadian people, who he called “awesome.”
Rogan has previously talked with President Donald Trump about Canada, with both raising concerns over its increasing embrace of central control. Rogan said he’s had private conversations with Trump about Prime Minister Trudeau’s leadership and the broader path the nation is on.
The UFC event in Montreal is expected to be a major draw, featuring top-ranked fighters in multiple championship bouts. Rogan’s decision to skip the event is one of the few times in recent history that he’s withdrawn from a high-profile card over political concerns.
As tensions rise between the U.S. and Canada, Rogan’s decision may resonate with fans who share his concerns about government overreach and the protection of individual rights.
