Dana White’ Comments Resurface After Uproar Over Sean Strickland’s Controversial Media Day Comments

UFC CEO Dana White's UFC 297 comments resurface after middleweight contender Sean Strickland recent controversial comments.

Dana White’ Comments Resurface After Uproar Over Sean Strickland’s Controversial Media Day Comments

Dana White reacts to Sean Strickland's recent rant (via SPORTbible, MMA Fighting)

In Short
  • Dana White defends free speech for UFC fighters, allowing them to express controversial views.
  • Sean Strickland's recent comments on women's MMA and a homophobic rant have sparked significant backlash.
  • The UFC's new media rights deal with Paramount+ may be affected by fighters' controversial behavior.

UFC CEO Dana White has long supported free speech in the UFC, insisting fighters speak their minds without restrictions. Sean Strickland highlights the challenge of this approach, as his unapologetic persona and controversial remarks often attract attention. This was evident after Strickland’s recent comments on women’s MMA, while an older White interview on fighter freedom has resurfaced.

Strickland is scheduled to face Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston on February 21. While media day for the event, he recently made comments questioning the credibility of women’s MMA, claiming that even the “weakest and softest man” could defeat former double champion Amanda Nunes. His remarks drew widespread attention, reinforcing his reputation as one of the sport’s most polarizing figures.

Strickland also sparked controversy with an unfiltered homophobic rant about rapper Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LV performance. His remarks have raised questions about how the UFC handles controversial speech. After Strickland’s UFC 297 title loss to Dricus Du Plessis, White said he would never stop the middleweight contender from speaking freely and that reporters should ask questions carefully.

If you get your feelings hurt that bad you shouldn’t ask these questions when you know the response you’ll get from Strickland. I don’t tell any human what to say or think, there’s no leashes.

Dana White via UFC 297 media day

Fans are also watching how Strickland’s controversial comments could impact the UFC’s new media rights partnership with Paramount+. The $7.7 billion deal marks the UFC’s first move away from the traditional pay-per-view model to a subscription-based platform. Perceptions of broadcasters and sponsors may be influenced by fighter behavior, highlighting challenges as the promotion navigates this major shift.

White has consistently emphasized his belief in free speech, maintaining that fighters should express themselves without censorship. The UFC boss has portrayed the promotion as a platform where athletes are not restricted in interviews or press settings. However, critics have cited contradictions, including the past bans of journalists Ariel Helwani and Luke Thomas, which have led to accusations of inconsistency.

Sean Strickland’s views and outspoken nature have been indirectly defended by Dana White, who has often treated his remarks with humor rather than discipline. The UFC CEO has historically downplayed controversy, reinforcing its commitment to unrestricted expression. However, as the promotion enters a new media era, the long-term impact of repeated controversies could influence public perception.

Dana White’s new Zuffa Boxing belt revealed by Turki Alalshikh

Dana White’s move into professional boxing with Zuffa Boxing has gained momentum since the inaugural Zuffa Boxing 01 event. He has continued making waves in the boxing community, reinforcing his ambition to reshape the sport’s promotional model. White recently confirmed the introduction of the organization’s first championship title, with the official reveal conducted by co-founder Turki Alalshikh.

Dana White's Zuffa Boxing's next plan
Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing’s next plan (via X)

When White first floated the idea of introducing a Zuffa Boxing championship belt, he faced criticism from established promoters such as Eddie Hearn, who questioned the need for another title in an already fragmented sport. Despite the skepticism, Turki Alalshikh recently posted a photo of the belt alongside Dana White and TKO executive Nick Khan, formally unveiling its design.

Today I am happy, I met with my brothers Dana and Nick in Las Vegas and they gifted me the first Zuffa Boxing belt – made with beautiful diamonds. This is a huge start for Zuffa, and only the very best will be lucky enough to win this belt.

Turki Alalshikh told Ring Magazine

The first official Zuffa Boxing title fight is scheduled for March 8, when Australian cruiserweight Jai Opetaia will face American boxer Brandon Glanton for the inaugural Zuffa Boxing cruiserweight championship. Both fighters are set to headline Zuffa Boxing 04 at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, marking the promotion’s first bout to crown a world title under its own banner

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