Joe Rogan reveals why UFC middleweight Ateba Gautier could be the future of the sport

Joe Rogan recently spoke about two fighters who really impressed him. During a new episode of his podcast recorded in Austin, Texas, Joe Rogan shared his thoughts on a young UFC middleweight who he believes is special.

He said Ateba Gautier is someone fans should keep a close eye on because of how strong and sharp he looks inside the cage.Joe Rogan made these comments while talking with comedian Shane Gillis on The Joe Rogan Experience in late 2025. Along with Gautier, Rogan also spoke about Dakota Ditcheva, explaining why she is one of the most dangerous fighters in women’s MMA today.

Joe Rogan explains why Ateba Gautier is rising fast in the UFC middleweight division

While speaking on the podcast, Joe Rogan focused on Ateba Gautier, a 23-year-old fighter from Cameroon who competes at 185 pounds in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Joe Rogan said Gautier stands out because of his power, speed, and calm style during fights. Ateba Gautier has a 9–1 professional MMA record, and eight of those wins have come by knockout. Joe Rogan said that most of Gautier’s opponents do not last long once the fight begins. He pointed out that Gautier’s height, reach, and clean striking make him very tough to handle.Gautier last fought at UFC 320 in October 2025, where he defeated Treston Vines with a first-round knockout.

His next fight is already booked. He is set to face Andrey Pulyaev at UFC 324, which is scheduled for next month in the United States. Joe Rogan said this matchup will be another big test and a chance for Gautier to prove he belongs at the top.

In the same episode, Joe Rogan also spoke highly about Dakota Ditcheva, who fights under the Professional Fighters League banner. Ditcheva is from England and is known for her strong Muay Thai background.Joe Rogan explained that Dakota Ditcheva wins many of her fights by knockout because of her timing and accuracy. He said her knees and elbows are especially effective once she gets close to her opponent. Rogan also mentioned that people sometimes underestimate her because of how calm and stylish she looks outside the cage.According to Joe Rogan, once the fight starts, Dakota Ditcheva shows complete control. He used her as an example of why looks do not matter in combat sports, only skill and preparation do.Also Read: “There Is No Freedom Of Speech”: Khabib Nurmagomedov Explains His Hard Line Coaching Style Inside MMA Gym