Dana White, the president and CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), has maintained a close friendship with US President Donald Trump for more than 25 years. Their relationship dates back to 2001, when Trump extended his support to mixed martial arts at a time when the sport was struggling for mainstream acceptance.
The two have recently made headlines after Trump offered his friend White the position of White House press secretary in a post on Truth Social. White, however, has declined the offer. The announcement has also sparked confusion over whether Trump intended to refer to another person named Dana W White, a woman who previously served as a Pentagon spokesperson for the Department of Defence and former Defence Secretary Jim Mattis.
Their friendship began in 2001 when Trump hosted UFC 30 and UFC 31 at his venues. At a time when mixed martial arts was widely criticised and often described as 'human cockfighting', Trump's decision to support the organisation was considered significant. White has repeatedly acknowledged that early backing and has said he would never turn against Trump because of the support he received during those difficult years.
The relationship has remained strong over the years. When Trump won the 2024 presidential election, White stood alongside him during his victory speech. Earlier that year, following an assassination attempt against Trump in Pennsylvania, White delivered the final introductory speech for the Republican presidential candidate at the Republican National Convention.
Trump has also frequently associated his MAGA political movement with the popularity of the UFC. Since returning to the White House for his second term, he has attended several UFC events in Miami, New York and New Jersey.
The connection between the two has extended beyond political appearances. On Trump's 80th birthday in June, the UFC organised a cage-fighting event on the White House South Lawn, drawing considerable attention.
Trump also briefly entered the mixed martial arts business in 2008, partnering with a clothing brand to launch a rival promotion. The venture signed prominent Russian heavyweight fighter Fedor Emelianenko but folded after just two events.
The White House press secretary position has remained vacant since October 16, following Katie Zacharia's departure after less than a week in the role.
Earlier this year, Trump had also suggested that White bring six UFC fighters to the White House as advisers, describing them as potential defenders against what he called the 'Lunatic Left'.
Despite the latest speculation surrounding the press secretary offer, White's long-standing friendship with Trump remains rooted in the support he received when few others were willing to back the UFC.
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