Joe Rogan is steering clear of Canada this spring, making it clear he won’t be attending UFC 315 in Montreal. The outspoken commentator and host of “The Joe Rogan Experience” said bluntly he won’t go to Canada anymore, citing serious concerns about the country’s leadership.
“I don’t go to Canada anymore,” Rogan said on his show. “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
While the line drew laughs, Rogan’s tone suggested the decision was rooted in more than humor. He pointed to the Canadian government’s behavior during past crises — especially the trucker protests — as proof the country has embraced heavy-handed, top-down control at the expense of individual freedoms.
Rogan praised the people of Canada, saying they are “awesome,” but said the government has crossed too many lines. He has criticized how authorities treated protesters in Ottawa during the vaccine mandate standoff, describing it as a dark moment for civil liberties.
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
This refusal to cross into Canada for a major UFC event comes at a time when tensions between the U.S. and Canadian governments are running high. Trump has proposed adding Canada as the 51st state and imposed tariffs that sparked political backlash across the border.
Rogan’s podcast previously hosted Trump during the 2024 campaign season, and UFC President Dana White credited that appearance with helping the president secure a second term. Since then, Rogan has been more vocal about global politics, including what he calls the rise of “woke authoritarianism” in places like Canada.
UFC 315 is set for May 10 in Montreal, featuring top-tier bouts including Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena and a women’s flyweight title match between Valentina Shevchenko and Manon Fiorot. Rogan’s absence will be felt by longtime UFC viewers used to his ringside commentary.
