Michael Alexander sits comfortably in the commentary booth, center seat, headphones on, ready to call the next fight. He’s got the voice, the wit, and the sharp insight that fans love. His post-fight interviews have gone viral, racking up over 200 million views across social media. He’s a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, a world champion, and his work on UFC Fight Pass for Fury Fighting Championships has helped launch countless fighters into the UFC.
The comparisons to Joe Rogan feel inevitable. But when asked the question directly about whether he’s the next Joe Rogan, his response was as quick as it was definitive.
“No,” he said with a laugh. “Don’t get me wrong, if the UFC were to offer me the opportunity to do a fight night I’d jump at the opportunity. But I’m not the next Joe Rogan. I’m doing my own thing, in my own way.”
As Alexander explained further, it became clear why the comparison, while flattering, doesn’t quite fit.
The Comparison
On the surface, the similarities are obvious. Both Alexander and Rogan are Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belts who bring a unique energy and depth to fight commentary. Both have a knack for turning post-fight moments into viral gold. And both have made UFC-related platforms their home.
“I get why people make the comparison,” Alexander says. “I do commentary from the center seat, I handle the ring interviews, and a bunch of them have gone viral. But that’s where it ends. I mean, Joe is arguably the most famous person on earth. Those are not the easiest shoes to fill.”
The Differences
Alexander is quick to pivot from what they share to what sets him apart.
“Joe’s built this incredible empire around podcasting and long-form conversations. That’s not my lane,” he says. “I’m focused on the fights, on bringing energy to the commentary, and connecting with the fighters in the moment. I love that part of it.”
The work he’s doing with Fury Fighting Championships speaks to his unique approach. Fury has become a key pipeline for fighters on their way to the UFC, and Alexander’s role as a commentator is a big part of the promotion’s success. His post-fight interviews highlight fighters’ stories, balancing humor and genuine connection.
“Joe is a master at what he does, and he’s made it huge,” Alexander adds. “I’m doing a lot of different things I’m passionate about, and that’s what drives me.”
A Modern Multi-Hyphenate
Alexander’s career extends well beyond the commentary booth. He’s built a reputation as an entrepreneur, real estate investor, and author. He’s even done a little acting, including co-starring in a TV show pilot with Lorenzo Lamas.
“I’ve always been about finding ways to monetize what I love,” he says. “Real estate, commentary, writing, even building communities. If I’m passionate about something, I find a way to make it work.”
One of those passions is his latest real estate project, a 40-acre treehouse community designed for wellness retreats, unique experiences, and even weddings. It’s just one example of how Alexander keeps pushing boundaries, blending creativity and practicality in everything he does.
The Philosophy That Drives Him
When it comes down to it, Alexander’s refusal to be the “next Joe Rogan” stems from his core philosophy: doubling down on his strengths and doing what feels authentic to him.
“I’m not trying to follow anyone else’s path,” he says. “I’ve been through enough in life to know that you’ve got to do what works for you, not what works for someone else.”
That philosophy has carried him through a diverse career that spans sports, business, and personal growth. Whether he’s mentoring fighters, developing real estate projects, or working in the commentary booth, Alexander approaches each role with the same focus and passion.
The First Michael Alexander
As the conversation wound down, Alexander left me with one final thought. “I take comparisons to Joe as a compliment. But I’m not trying to be the next anybody,” he says. “I’m the first Michael Alexander, and that’s more than enough.”
With a career that’s as varied as it is impactful, it’s clear that Alexander isn’t following anyone’s footsteps. He’s carving his own path, one fight, one project, and one viral moment at a time.