Joe Rogan Sparks MMA Backlash After Commenting on Dakota Ditcheva’s Looks While Discussing Her PFL Dominance on His Podcast

A casual conversation on Joe Rogan’s podcast has unexpectedly ignited debate in the MMA world, after the longtime UFC commentator focused heavily on the looks of unbeaten PFL star Dakota Ditcheva. What started as praise during a light-hearted chat quickly turned into a flashpoint about how female fighters are talked about in public spaces.

Rogan’s Praise Comes With a Twist

While chatting with comedian Shane Gillis, Rogan brought up Ditcheva’s rise in the PFL, clearly impressed by her flawless 15–0 record and finishing ability. But instead of sticking purely to her skills, Rogan repeatedly highlighted her appearance, describing her as “pretty,” “slim,” and someone who might be mistaken for a fitness enthusiast rather than a professional fighter.

As fight clips rolled, Rogan emphasized the contrast between her looks and her violent effectiveness in the cage, marveling at how she “tunes up” opponents with ruthless precision. Gillis piled on with jokes of his own, painting a picture of how dangerous Ditcheva would be to anyone underestimating her.

The Internet Reacts Fast

The clip didn’t stay confined to the podcast. Once it was shared on the PFL’s Instagram page, reactions flooded in — including one from former UFC fighter Bec “Rowdy” Rawlings. She was clearly unimpressed by the framing and fired back with a sarcastic comment that flipped the script, mocking the idea of reducing a fighter’s credibility to their attractiveness.

Her comment struck a chord with fans who felt the conversation missed the point of Ditcheva’s dominance and discipline inside the cage.

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A Familiar Frustration for Ditcheva

For Ditcheva, the reaction isn’t new. She has spoken openly about how often people express surprise when they learn she’s a professional fighter. In a previous interview, she explained that comments like “you don’t look like a fighter” usually stem from outdated stereotypes about what toughness is supposed to look like.

She’s acknowledged that while she understands where the assumptions come from, they often ignore the reality of her training, mindset, and accomplishments.

Career Momentum Hits a Pause

As the debate continues online, Ditcheva herself is currently sidelined. She was forced to withdraw from a scheduled February 7 bout in Abu Dhabi due to an undisclosed injury, delaying her next chance to build on her growing reputation.

Her last appearance came in July in Cape Town, where she secured another victory despite breaking her left hand during the fight. Speaking afterward, Ditcheva made it clear she sees her future firmly rooted in the PFL — even if fans will have to wait a little longer to see her back in action.

Skill, Not Stereotypes, Define the Fighter

The episode has reopened a broader conversation about how women in combat sports are discussed and perceived. For many observers, Ditcheva’s record, technique, and composure should be the headline — not her looks.

When she does return to the cage, the focus is likely to shift back where it belongs: on a fighter who keeps winning, no matter what assumptions people make before the bell rings.