Dana White’s Admission While Testifying in Court Shocks UFC Fans 

UFC CEO Dana White opens up about his role in UFC matchmaking and contract dealings after being summoned to the court.

Dana White’s Admission While Testifying in Court Shocks UFC Fans 

Dana White denies making UFC fights like he used to (via X)

Over the years, Dana White transformed the UFC from bankruptcy into a billion-dollar powerhouse, becoming the sport’s most influential executive. That rise also fueled criticism toward White, particularly over fighter pay, contract leverage, and close matchmaking negotiations across the industry.

However, recent insider revelations have exposed negotiation dynamics that seem to be more complex. Dana White appeared under oath inside a Nevada federal courtroom, addressing testimony tied to the UFC antitrust case.

The hearing was mandated by Richard Boulware following concerns over missing communications, deleted messages, and unexplained evidence gaps involving senior UFC top brass. Multiple veteran fighters argued UFC’s business practices suppressed athlete pay through restrictive contracts and market control.

White testified for over two hours, detailing phone usage, lost messages, internal processes, and clarifying how his executive responsibilities have evolved lately. In testimony that surprised fans, the UFC boss admitted he does not negotiate fighter contracts anymore and rarely handles matchmaking.

I have less than zero [involvement in fighter contracts]. You won’t find one manager on this planet who will tell you I’ve negotiated a deal in I don’t know how long.

Dana White via recent court testimony 

Dana White mentioned that he passed most of these duties to Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell years ago after Endeavor’s acquisition. This landmark deal took place in 2016 when the Fertitta brothers sold UFC to Endeavor for a whopping $4.4 billion. Matchmakers Sean Shelby and Mick Maynard also now handle contract discussions and matchup decisions without White’s direct involvement. 

According to White, he’s not that tech-savvy, explaining he used old flip phones and only switched devices for legal retention. He denied intentionally deleting texts, but acknowledged gaps in phone data critical for evidence production in court. White’s testimony marks a notable shift from his historic reputation as the central decision-maker in UFC operations. 

However, many, including popular journalist Ariel Helwani, mentioned that it was obvious and he’s been telling this for years. “Very few of the managers talk to Dana. 99 percent of the fights are not put together by him,” said Helwani via X. On the other hand, Campbell was once viewed as a behind-the-scenes problem solver, but testimony revealed his influence extends deeply into UFC negotiations. 

Dana White alerted for potential UFC White House event main event 

For UFC and Dana White, the upcoming White House event represents a landmark opportunity blending politics and global combat sports. Donald Trump has repeatedly hyped the concept, publicly discussing ambitions of hosting the card inside a massive 100,000-seat stadium. Reports suggest the card could feature seven to eight title fights, making it one of the most stacked events.

Dana White gets an offer from Justin Gaethje
Dana White gets an offer from Justin Gaethje (via X)

Top fighters across multiple divisions are reportedly eager to participate, viewing the event as historic and career-defining. Despite massive speculation, no official announcements have been made, leaving matchups and timelines strictly under wraps. Interestingly, interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has already proposed a compelling matchup for the main event of the fight card.

It has to be [Topuria at the White House]. No other option. I think we’re gonna main event it.

Justin Gaethje via The Pat McAfee Show 

Justin Gaethje captured his second interim title by defeating Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 via unanimous decision. Currently, Gaethje is focused on pursuing a fight with Ilia Topuria and has welcomed the champion’s long-awaited return to competition. “El Matador” has reportedly resolved his legal proceedings and is now fully prepared to resume fighting. 

Dana White has also discussed potential comebacks for major stars, including Conor McGregor, fueling widespread speculation. However, White denied McGregor facing Michael Chandler and expressed hesitation about trusting Jon Jones for a potential fight. 

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