Joe Rogan Would Travel to Spain to Commentate Islam vs. Ilia Superfight, Says Bisping

Joe Rogan doesn’t usually leave U.S. soil to call fights. But for a potential showdown between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria in Spain, he’s ready to break that tradition.

During a recent segment, Michael Bisping revealed that Rogan told him directly he’d “go to Spain to commentate on that one,” if the long-rumored superfight between the UFC’s lightweight champion and Topuria takes place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid.

“Joe Rogan said if that fight happens in Spain at the Bernabéu Stadium, Joe Rogan would go to Spain to commentate on that one. I was like, you bastard, I might get that one — but no, it will be Joe Rogan,” Bisping joked.

UFC Spain Event Is Already in Motion

Earlier this year, UFC President Dana White confirmed that the promotion will head to Spain in 2025.

While the exact location hasn’t been finalized, Topuria’s celebration at the Bernabéu following his UFC title win strongly suggests the stadium is being considered.

Topuria, who recently knocked out Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 317, has become a national hero in Spain. His rise has been fast and dominant.

For full context on that finish and the heated post-fight faceoff with Paddy Pimblett, read:

Why This Fight Would Be Massive?

A matchup between Makhachev and Topuria would be one of the most anticipated fights in recent UFC history.

With Makhachev previously holding the lightweight belt and Topuria now carrying it, the storyline writes itself.

This wouldn’t just be about belts — it would be a cultural and stylistic clash.

Makhachev’s grappling-heavy Dagestani style versus Topuria’s aggressive striking and movement.

For more on Topuria’s discipline to stay grounded after UFC 317.

Check out: Ilia Topuria Made This Promise to UFC Before Winning Lightweight Title

Rogan’s Interest Speaks Volumes

The fact that Joe Rogan — the most iconic voice in MMA — is open to traveling internationally for a single fight says everything about the event’s scale.

Rogan typically limits his commentary duties to pay-per-views inside the U.S., mainly in Las Vegas or New York.

But this one’s different. As Bisping said, “that would be a fight to travel for.”

This also lines up with the UFC’s strategy of pushing global markets. Recent cards in Australia, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia have shown the brand’s reach.

Spain could be next — and Rogan’s presence would mark history.

Where Does Islam Fit Into All This?

While Makhachev hasn’t officially been announced as Topuria’s next opponent, many believe he’s the natural choice — especially after he vacated the lightweight title to pursue welterweight gold.

Until then, fans are still unpacking the drama from UFC 317. To catch up on everything, here are the top stories:

If the Makhachev vs. Topuria clash is booked — especially in Madrid — fans should expect history. And Joe Rogan will be right there to call it.