Donald Trump celebrated his triumph in the latest US presidential elections and declared victory after taking Pennsylvania. As the announcement was made, familiar faces surrounded him, including Melania Trump, his spouse, as well as their kids, Ivanka, Eric, and Baron Trump. JD Vance, his Vice-Presidential nominee, also stood by him. The stage, however, was uniquely graced by a few not-so-common figures, one of whom was Dana White, the proprietor of UFC, who delivered a heartfelt speech. Dana White’s association with Trump sparks curiosity, particularly considering his ownership of the mixed martial arts behemoth. Let’s delve into his extraordinary journey and his connection to the soon-to-be U.S President.
Dana Frederick White Jr., the American entrepreneur who commands global mixed martial arts entity, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), is undeniably a towering figure in his realm. His fateful alliance with Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta in 2001 acted as a catalyst in his ascension. Together, they purchased UFC from Bob Meyrowitz, marking the beginning of White’s tenure as the organization’s president.
Under White’s leadership, UFC transformed from a niche, graphic sport into a billion-dollar global sensation featured across numerous territories. At the dawn of this astronomical rise, White sought out Donald Trump to secure facilities for UFC events. As a result, UFC 30 and 31 were hosted at Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a venue which was then under Trump’s ownership.
This was the initiation of a lasting camaraderie between two distinguished businessmen, a bond that perseveres to this day. In his victory speech, Trump acknowledged the early support he had given to White and the controversial sport: ‘I saw potential in what Dana was doing, even though it was a tough sport, I found myself enjoying it, and he’s certainly passionate about it.’
Dana White, alongside Trump and Musk, awaited the results of the electoral count. White’s backing for Trump in his first presidential bid in 2016, again in 2020 and 2024, and his show of support at the Republican National Convention, defines how highly he regards Trump.
In his inspiring speech following Trump’s claimed victory, White emphasized the merit of Trump’s triumph against a system intent on his downfall. ‘You’ve witnessed his journey over these years – this is what resilience looks like. Undeterred, constantly moving forward, he never gives in. He’s perhaps the most unyielding and dedicated man I’ve ever encountered. This is his well-earned fate.’
UFC’s worldwide phenomenon can be attributed, in large part, to the unique bond between Dana White and the larger-than-life fighter, Conor McGregor. As UFC was gaining momentum and expanding its fan base, the Irish fighter rose to global stardom, his audacious personality and raw talent thrusting UFC into popular culture.
It’s unmistakable that the relationship between White and McGregor has been a beneficial one, even when their views have clashed. After a hiatus since 2021, McGregor had planned to enter the octagon once more in June, but unfortunately had to withdraw due to a foot injury.