Although B.J. Penn`s peak fighting years are far behind him, his significant legacy and skill remain topics of discussion among fight fans and analysts alike.
On a recent podcast, commentator Joe Rogan revisited Penn`s career, highlighting how enhanced physical conditioning unlocked the full potential of the former two-division UFC titleholder. Rogan proposed that Penn at his absolute best could realistically challenge any lightweight competitor today, even a dominant figure like Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Rogan specifically recalled Penn`s prime period training under Marv Marinovich, known for his unconventional methods emphasizing plyometrics and explosive drills over traditional fight preparation. Marinovich believed superior conditioning (“insane gas tank”) was paramount, assuming the fighter already possessed the technical skills. Rogan asserted that the Penn who trained this way was “unstoppable” and declared he would have been competitive against anyone from that era.
While acknowledging Khabib Nurmagomedov is often cited as the greatest lightweight ever, Rogan argued forcefully for a prime B.J. Penn. He specifically referenced Penn`s dominant performances against opponents like Joe Stevenson and Sean Sherk during his peak physical conditioning. Rogan detailed Penn`s exceptional ground game, particularly off his back (“insane submission game”), his dangerous ability to take the back, and his effective stand-up striking (“kickboxing was elite”). He felt this version of Penn was capable of beating anyone.
Nurmagomedov is frequently considered the top contender for the lightweight GOAT title, a claim supported by his undefeated 29-0 record upon retirement in 2020. His resume includes three successful title defenses and victories over numerous prominent fighters and future UFC Hall of Famers. Khabib`s wrestling dominance often led to one-sided contests, and his decision to retire left many fans curious about how he would have fared against later opponents.
Penn`s career record of 16-14-2 doesn`t fully capture the impact he had during his prime. He delivered memorable performances at both welterweight and lightweight, establishing himself as a fan favorite during the UFC`s growth in the 2000s. His rivalries with Georges St-Pierre and Matt Hughes are legendary in MMA history. While he held titles in two divisions, it was at lightweight where he was widely considered most formidable.
The discussion naturally led to the hypothetical dream matchup: how would Rogan envision Nurmagomedov approaching a fight with Penn at his best?
Rogan predicted Khabib would definitely seek the takedown, likely employing a strategy similar to Georges St-Pierre`s against Penn. He noted the significant size disparity between Penn (a natural 155-pounder who even fought at 145 later) and St-Pierre (a large, muscular 170-pounder with strong wrestling, ground-and-pound, a jiu-jitsu black belt, and good striking). Rogan also recalled the controversial “greasing” accusations in the GSP-Penn fight, suggesting it hampered Penn`s dangerous guard game.
Emphasizing Penn`s unique physical attributes, Rogan described his incredible leg flexibility and dexterity, allowing him to control opponents from his guard with his legs “like arms.” He stated that being caught in Penn`s guard was an extremely dangerous position.
The article concludes with a personal perspective from the author, admitting their bias as a “B.J. Penn stan” and having frequently pondered a hypothetical prime Penn vs. Khabib fight, while also acknowledging past incorrect predictions like Khabib losing to Tony Ferguson.
Wesley Dunham