Former ESPN host Sage Steele recently explained why she mistakenly confused UFC President Dana White with podcaster Joe Rogan not once but twice during an interview on her “Sage Steele Podcast.” Steele made the error at the start of the interview when she asked White to wear a matching pair of socks she traditionally wears during interviews and thanked him by saying, “Thank you, Joe.” While the mistake went unaddressed initially, White later called her out on it during their conversation. Steele revealed that the mix-up occurred because White had mentioned Rogan’s name earlier that day, leading to confusion on her part.
During an appearance on the late-night talk show Gutfeld!, Steele explained that the mix-up happened due to White mentioning Rogan’s name and sometimes getting people’s names mixed up. She added that because both men work with the UFC and due to the flow of the conversation, she made the mistake. Despite recognizing her error, Steele kept the moment in the interview and poked fun at herself, admitting that she could have edited it out but chose not to. She also mentioned being a parent to three children and often calling them by the wrong names, indicating that mix-ups were common for her.
Steele’s explanation of the mix-up garnered support from fans on social media, many of whom agreed that White and Rogan do look alike. Some users shared their experiences of mixing up names as well, emphasizing that mistakes happen, and Steele was praised as a “national treasure” for her openness and humor in addressing the situation. The confusion between White and Rogan is not uncommon, as fans have previously cited their similar appearance, including baldness, facial features, and physique, as reasons for the mix-up. People on social media expressed surprise upon realizing that the two UFC figures were distinct individuals.
In a playful moment during her interview with White, Steele mistakenly referred to him as Joe Rogan again when asking about Rogan’s dream. White reacted humorously to the error, joking about his baldness and asserting that he was bald before Rogan. He also commented on the common confusion between himself and Rogan among fans, highlighting the similarities in their physical characteristics. The incident added a light-hearted touch to their conversation and showcased Steele’s ability to laugh at herself and make light of the situation.
Overall, Steele’s mix-up with White and Rogan during the interview highlighted the humorous side of human error and the challenges of remembering names, especially in high-pressure situations. Her candid explanation and willingness to joke about the mistake resonated with audiences, who appreciated her authenticity and ability to laugh at herself. The incident also shed light on the similarities between White and Rogan that have led to confusion among fans, sparking conversations and laughter on social media. Ultimately, Steele’s lighthearted approach to the mix-up showcased her personality and ability to connect with audiences in a relatable and entertaining manner.
