President of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Dana White, has declared his withdrawal from political engagements. This announcement follows his active role in supporting Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. White denounced the world of politics as “gross” and “disgusting,” stating his intent to steer clear of any future political pursuits.
White and Trump have maintained a close relationship since the early 2000s. During the UFC’s early years, Trump provided venues for the events to take place.
White served as an influential speaker at the previous three Republican National Conventions, owing to Trump’s request. He was also part of the on-stage celebration following Trump’s recent election victory. During this event, White delivered a speech filled with commendations for Trump’s leadership and personality, which many perceived as a personal victory speech.
In his speech, White hailed Trump as one of the bravest and most resilient men he has ever met. He recounted an event where Trump was targeted by an individual with a scoped rifle, who fired seven shots at him. White expressed admiration for Trump’s courage and fortitude during the incident.
However, White’s involvement in politics has left him feeling disenchanted, despite his considerable contributions.
Shortly after UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, New York, on November 16, 2024, he stated to The New Yorker, “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 endeavors included arranging Trump’s appearances on several popular podcasts, such as those hosted by Joe Rogan, Theo Von, and the Nelk Boys. These platforms granted Trump a direct connection to audiences outside of traditional media outlets.
White’s political engagement reached its peak at UFC 309, where Trump was present alongside House Speaker Mike Johnson, entrepreneur Elon Musk, and podcaster Joe Rogan. This event underscored the merging of politics, technology, and sports media in modern campaign tactics.
White’s decision to retreat from politics signifies a notable change and underscores the intricacies and personal impacts of political involvement, even for those with substantial influence and long-term relationships.
