Dana White is not losing sleep over criticism tied to the UFC’s relationship with Donald Trump. As the promotion prepares for its upcoming White House card, questions continue to follow the organization’s close alignment with Trump. Some critics believe the partnership could hurt business, especially as political divisions in the United States remain sharp.
Business and personal alignment
White made it clear that concern does not factor into his thinking. He explained his reasoning on the Kate Miller Podcast.
White said when asked if his relationship with Trump has cost the UFC business:
“I don’t give a sh*t. I don’t know the answer to that question.”
White pointed to a shift in how he approaches both business and personal relationships. He said that change came after navigating the COVID period and its aftermath.
“I’ve gotten to a point in my life, especially after COVID and all the nutty sh*t that went on during that time, that I only want to be in business with and talk to people that I’m aligned with,”
The UFC has leaned further into its connection with Trump in recent years. That includes regular appearances at events and public support from White himself.
The relationship now extends to one of the most unusual events in company history. The promotion is set to hold UFC Freedom 250 on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14. According to White, the idea came directly from Trump during a recent UFC event appearance.
Politics and the fight game
Despite the visibility of that relationship, White has repeatedly said he does not view the UFC as a political organization. He also addressed the broader question of politics in sports.
“I would love to,” White said when asked if politics and sports should remain separate.
“I think, you know, when you think about in the 80s and 90s, religion, right? That’s basically what like politics now is like religion.”
He described a climate where political disagreements dominate public life.
“I mean, these guys are, everybody’s fighting over all this crazy sh*t,” White said.
“And I think we should go back to you don’t know who you voted for.”
At the same time, White said involvement in political discussions should remain a personal choice.
“But I think it’s up to the athlete or the organization or whatever if they want to be involved in politics or talk on politics,” he said.
“It’s up to the individuals or the teams or the leagues or whatever they are.”
Watch the whole interview here
Should we keep politics out of sports?