Not On Same Page? Dana White Contradicts Conor McGregor’s ‘Done Deal’ Remark over White House Event

After seemingly confirming a spot at the White House, Conor McGregor's claims are diminished by UFC CEO Dana White.

Not On Same Page? Dana White Contradicts Conor McGregor’s ‘Done Deal’ Remark over White House Event

Dana White says that Conor McGregor is not confirmed for UFC White House (via MMA Mania, X)

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Speculation often fuels the world of combat sports, where hype and reality can blur long before any fighter steps into the cage. Over the past week, the fight world has been captivated by talk of the UFC White House event, a claim that gained traction after Conor McGregor announced that his participation was already confirmed. However, Dana White has since clarified that no such deal currently existed.

McGregor remains vocal about his ambition to headline the 2026 White House card. He has portrayed the event as a symbolic moment in his career and suggested it would serve as his ultimate comeback spectacle. However, the Irishman’s confidence mirrored previous instances where he hinted at major fights that were never finalized, further fueling skepticism among fans and analysts.

White was vocal about allowing McGregor to headline the card, as he wants bankable fighters whom he can count on to show up, regardless of the circumstances. The UFC CEO believed that the ‘Notorious One’ has always shown up in moments of importance and credited him with the rise of the UFC. However, when asked about McGregor’s official confirmation, White seemed confused.

We have not started negotiating any fights for the White House yet. That won’t start until February. I made it clear that Conor wants to fight on that card, and you can clearly see that Conor is very fired up to fight on that card, but nothing is done yet. No fights have been signed yet.

Dana White via UFC

Beyond the realm of promotional statements, McGregor has also publicly outlined the terms of his involvement. He has demanded a $100 million payout and 100 “Golden Visas” for himself, his family, and associates in exchange for participating in the White House card. These demands are among the boldest ever disclosed in connection with a UFC event and reflect the high stakes McGregor associates.

Amid the speculation, McGregor has also made it clear that he wants to face rival Michael Chandler at the White House event. Their matchup was initially expected to take place in 2024 following their coaching stint on The Ultimate Fighter 31, but was delayed multiple times due to injuries and scheduling complications. He viewed the White House as the perfect stage to settle his rivalry with Chandler.

Conor McGregor’s preparations for his rumored comeback have also drawn attention. He has planned six months of private training leading up to the event, choosing to remain out of the spotlight and focus exclusively on conditioning. However, Dana White’s comments once again raise doubts in the minds of fans who have been consistently disappointed by the Irishman.

Fans react to Dana White backtracking Conor McGregor’s claims of confirming UFC White House spot

In the aftermath of Dana White’s clarification, the online discussion around Conor McGregor’s alleged White House fight has only intensified. The conflicting statements between the two have created a wave of speculation and debate across social media platforms. What began as a bold announcement has now become a topic of mixed reactions, with fans divided over whether McGregor’s claim.

Dana White Conor McGregor
Dana White Conor McGregor (via MMA Fighting)

Some fans believe that Dana White should have embraced McGregor’s announcement rather than refuting it publicly, arguing that such theatrics serve as powerful marketing tools for both the UFC and its biggest star. They see McGregor’s boldness as a continuation of the promotional tactics that helped him redefine the storytelling in combat sports. Here are some fan reactions:

A large segment of fans criticized McGregor for making exaggerated claims about deals that have yet to materialize, pointing out that this is not the first time he has promised a comeback that failed to happen. Many drew parallels to his earlier declarations of return dates and opponents that were later canceled. To them, the situation serves as another reminder of McGregor’s growing reputation for hype over delivery.

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