Las Vegas, NV — Alan Jouban has worn many hats in combat sports: UFC veteran, analyst, commentator, and now a regular presence at the Power Slap broadcast desk. With his experience inside the cage and behind the microphone, Jouban brings a unique perspective to the sport as it continues to grow under the UFC banner.
Breaking Down the Fight Game
Fresh off UFC commentary duties, Jouban reflected on standout performances like Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez’s dominant win, calling it one of the most impressive displays he’s ever seen. That kind of analysis is what fans have come to expect from Jouban — detailed, technical, but delivered in a way that resonates with both hardcore and casual audiences.
When asked if Power Slap could ever reach that same level of analytical breakdown, Jouban said it’s possible — but emphasized the sport’s simplicity as part of its charm. “With MMA, you need to explain the nuances of grappling, striking, and tactics,” he said. “With Power Slap, fans instantly get it — someone gets slapped, they either go down or they don’t. That instant drama is what makes it unique.”
The Pushback Against Power Slap
Jouban didn’t shy away from addressing critics who’ve called the sport unsafe or barbaric. He drew comparisons to the early days of the UFC, when politicians like John McCain dismissed MMA as “human cockfighting.”
“Power Slap is still in that stage,” Jouban explained. “People don’t understand it yet, so they push back. But fighters want to do this. Nobody’s forced. They’re chasing opportunity, money, and recognition. You can’t take that away from them.”
For Jouban, it comes down to freedom of choice. He’s spoken with athletes who struggled to pay bills on the MMA regional scene, earning a fraction of what Power Slap now offers. Others see it as a platform to build fame or transition into pro wrestling. “If you don’t like it, don’t watch it,” Jouban said bluntly. “But don’t stop someone else from chasing their dream.”
Why He Embraced Power Slap
While some in the MMA community distanced themselves from Power Slap, Jouban leaned in. “I just thought it was fun,” he said. “I’m a broadcaster. Whether it’s BJJ, boxing, or Power Slap, I love telling the story.”
He recalled auditioning for the commentary role alongside Anthony “Rumble” Johnson, who even toyed with competing before being told his UFC status made it impossible. “We both got excited about it. It’s wild, it’s entertaining, and fans in the arena love it. The production is top-notch — lights, cameras, the pacing. People walk out of these events saying, ‘What did I just see?’ in the best way possible.”
Building Hype and Finding Stories
As a broadcaster, Jouban admits Power Slap presents a different challenge. With so many debuting athletes, there isn’t a deep backstory or legacy to draw from like in UFC main events. “It’s like every card is full of debuters,” he said. “You have to dig harder, tell their story, and then let the action speak for itself.”
Still, he sees the sport evolving — with fighters learning subtle defensive tactics, from tucking the chin to rolling the traps to absorb impact. It’s a nuance critics miss, but one Jouban notices developing in real time.
Viral Knockouts and Unforgettable Moments
Asked to share the most shocking Power Slap moment he’s covered, Jouban instantly recalled Austin “Turp Daddy Slim” Turpin’s knockout of Vern Cathy in New Orleans. “I went nuts on that call,” Jouban admitted. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”
What struck him wasn’t just the knockout, but the backstory. Turpin repeatedly missed weight, leaving Cathy to decide whether to accept a dangerous fight against someone nearly 20 pounds heavier. Cathy agreed, asking only for a bigger purse share — not because he needed the money, but because he loved competing.
“He’s got businesses, land, he’s successful outside of this,” Jouban explained. “But he just loves Power Slap. That’s the type of personality this sport attracts.”
Final Thoughts
For Jouban, Power Slap is more than just viral knockouts — it’s about opportunity. Fighters are chasing paydays, chasing fame, and chasing the rush that comes with competing on a global stage. And as a broadcaster, Jouban is committed to giving them the spotlight they deserve.
“Grab the mic, make your name, and entertain,” he tells fighters. “This sport is violent, yes, but it’s also about characters. That’s what fans will remember.”