Dana White Shuts Down Speculation About Joining Trump Administration

UFC CEO Dana White has made it clear—he has zero interest in politics, even as his close ally Donald Trump prepares to retake the presidency in January. Despite being one of Trump’s loudest supporters during the 2024 campaign and speaking at his victory celebration, White insists he’s staying far away from Washington.

Speaking to Sports Business Journal, White didn’t mince words when asked about the idea of joining the Trump administration. “I’m in the fight business, which is the dirtiest, nastiest business,” White said. “We all hate each other and we’re all fighting every day. There is nothing dirtier than politics. It’s disgusting. It’s gross. I want nothing to do with it.”

Speculation about White’s involvement stems from his long-standing relationship with Trump, dating back to when Trump supported the UFC during its early years. White has been a vocal supporter of Trump throughout his previous campaigns and stepped up even more in 2024, appearing at rallies, interviews, and TV segments to promote Trump’s agenda.

Despite rumors, White won’t follow in the footsteps of other wrestling and fight sports executives like former WWE exec Linda McMahon, who is set to be nominated as Secretary of Education. While White will undoubtedly maintain a close friendship with the president-elect, he’s making it crystal clear that politics is not for him.

White’s stance comes as no surprise to those familiar with his outspoken nature, but his name being floated as a potential candidate speaks to his influence and ties to Trump’s circle. Still, the UFC boss has drawn his line in the sand, choosing to focus on the octagon instead of the Oval Office.