Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White is vocal about his desire for fans to remain engaged with the sport, regardless of their political affiliations.
In a recent interview, White expressed concern that politics might deter some fans from enjoying UFC events. He emphasized the importance of authenticity, urging fans to appreciate the sport without letting differing political beliefs create a divide.
"Just be authentic," he stated in an interview set to air soon. "You don't have to agree with me, and you don't have to like it, and I don't have to agree with you, but we can all still just get along. That's how this is supposed to work."
In a significant development for the UFC, Paramount, the parent company of CBS News, has secured a lucrative 7-year broadcasting deal worth $7.7 billion for exclusive rights to UFC events.
White's relationship with President Donald Trump is well-documented; he has hosted Trump at various events and has been a prominent figure at Republican National Conventions. Despite this close association, White maintains that he respects the presidency irrespective of who holds the office.
Interestingly, White revealed that his conversations with Trump are devoid of political discussions. "I don't talk politics with him," he remarked in a separate interview. "And the only time I talk business with him is fights."
Adding to the intrigue, White's office features a painting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, and he has received gifts from notable figures like Kid Rock, who recently made headlines for an unusual workout video with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Looking ahead, the UFC is set to host a fight on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14, coinciding with Trump's 80th birthday and the nation's 250th anniversary celebration. White confirmed that this event is in collaboration with the Trump family.
"So, the fighters will walk out of the Oval Office to come to the Octagon," he shared in a previous interview, although details about this plan remain uncertain.
Mark Shapiro, president and COO of TKO Group, which owns both UFC and World Wrestling Entertainment, indicated that the company anticipates financial losses from the White House event. During a recent earnings call, he projected a potential loss of around $30 million.
The anticipated cost for hosting the event is approximately $60 million, which Shapiro framed as a long-term investment rather than a short-term profit opportunity. "We will not profit from the White House event independently," he stated. "This is about earned media."
As for the upcoming fight, White's primary focus remains on showcasing emerging talent and delivering an exceptional experience for fans both in attendance and watching at home.
“My focus is to find the best up-and-coming talent in the world, do the best matchmaking to put on the best fights possible,” he concluded. “And as long as I don’t mess those up, it’s tough to blow it.”
