UFC CEO Dana White Says Politics Won't Drive Fans Away

White argues fans can "just get along" despite differing political views

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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UFC CEO Dana White told "CBS Sunday Morning" that he urges fans to "be authentic" and not let politics interfere with their love of the sport. Despite his longtime friendship and support of former President Trump, White said he respects whoever occupies the nation's highest office and believes fans can "all still just get along" even if they don't agree politically.

Why it matters

White's comments come as sports leagues have increasingly faced political divides among fans. The UFC has maintained a close relationship with the Trump administration, which could alienate some fans, but White argues that political views shouldn't be a reason for fans to abandon the sport.

The details

White and his friends Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta acquired the UFC for $2 million in 2001 when the promotion was struggling. At the time, the UFC didn't even own its own website domain or the rights to merchandise and video games. White worked to negotiate deals and turn the UFC into the successful promotion it is today, including securing a $7.7 billion broadcast deal with Paramount starting in 2026.

  • In 2001, White and the Fertitta brothers acquired the struggling UFC for $2 million.
  • In August 2026, Paramount will become the exclusive U.S. broadcaster for all UFC events under a 7-year, $7.7 billion deal.

The players

Dana White

The CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), a longtime friend and supporter of former President Donald Trump.

Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta

Brothers who are Las Vegas casino heirs and co-owners of the UFC along with Dana White.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has had a close relationship with the UFC and Dana White.

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What they’re saying

“Just be authentic. 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.”

— Dana White, UFC CEO (CBS Sunday Morning)

What’s next

The UFC is planning a historic fight card on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14 as part of the lead-up to America's 250th birthday celebration. White confirmed he discussed the event with former President Trump and worked with Ivanka Trump on the details.

The takeaway

Despite his close ties to the Trump administration, UFC CEO Dana White believes fans can still enjoy the sport regardless of their political views. His comments highlight the challenge sports leagues face in navigating political divides among their fan bases, but White argues that authenticity and mutual respect can help bring people together.