The President of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Dana White, has publicly declared that he will no longer engage in political activities. This announcement follows his active participation in Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. White, who characterized the political world as “gross” and “disgusting,” is adamant about staying away from future political endeavors.
White and Trump have been friends since the early 2000s when Trump provided venues for UFC events during its initial years. Trump has utilized White’s status in the UFC, enlisting him as a keynote speaker at the last three Republican National Conventions.
Following Trump’s recent election victory, White was invited to the onstage celebration where he delivered a speech filled with praise for Trump. His comments lauded Trump’s leadership and character, and many perceived his speech as a personal victory declaration.
In his speech, White referred to Trump as one of the toughest and most fearless men he has ever known. He recounted an incident where Trump maintained his composure despite an attempted attack involving a high-powered rifle with a scope. White’s admiration for Trump’s resilience was clearly evident in his remarks.
However, despite his considerable involvement, White’s experience in politics has left him feeling disenchanted.
After UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York on November 16, 2024, he expressed his disillusionment to The New Yorker, stating, “I’m never (expletive) doing this again. I want nothing to do with this (expletive). It’s gross. It’s disgusting. I want nothing to do with politics.”
White’s political ventures included facilitating Trump’s appearances on popular podcasts such as those hosted by Joe Rogan, Theo Von, and the Nelk Boys. These platforms allowed Trump to reach audiences beyond traditional media outlets.
The pinnacle of White’s political engagement occurred at UFC 309, attended by Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, entrepreneur Elon Musk, and podcaster Joe Rogan. The event underscored the confluence of politics, technology, and sports media in modern campaign strategies.
White’s decision to withdraw from the political sphere signifies a considerable shift. It underscores the intricacies and personal costs of political participation, even for those with significant influence and enduring relationships.