Dana White Slyly Deflects Question About Conor McGregor’s Suspension from Testing Violation

Dana White redirects a question regarding Conor McGregor's suspension concerning White House event to Jeff Novitzky.

Dana White Slyly Deflects Question About Conor McGregor’s Suspension from Testing Violation

Dana White talks about Conor McGregor at the UFC White House (via Hollywood Reporter, VOV)

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UFC CEO Dana White continues to steer the promotion through turbulent times as questions swirl around Conor McGregor’s fighting future. The organization has been working toward assembling a landmark White House card for next year, but White now faces renewed scrutiny following McGregor’s recent suspension from competition.

McGregor has been inactive since facing a leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 and has remained under suspension following a breach of the UFC’s anti-doping program. This program subjects all contracted fighters to random testing to ensure fair competition. The timing of McGregor’s situation comes at a critical juncture, with the promotion hoping to feature prominent names on next year’s card.

White has been vocal about including the Irishman on the card because of his past experiences stepping up in critical situations for the UFC on multiple occasions. During a recent appearance, White addressed McGregor’s case but avoided offering any concrete updates. Instead, he sidestepped the question, signaling that discussions regarding the White House card were still premature.

We haven’t talked about one fight on the White House card… Whether he’s available or not yet, ask [Jeff] Novitzky about that.

Dana White via MMA Fighting

At the center of such matters is Jeff Novitzky, the UFC’s Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance. Novitzky, a former federal agent known for his role in the BALCO investigation that exposed widespread doping in sports, oversees the UFC’s partnership with USADA. His responsibilities include managing the organization to ensure fighters meet anti-doping standards.

McGregor has expressed a strong desire to return to the UFC at the historic White House event scheduled for June 2026, coinciding with the United States’ 250th anniversary. He has publicly stated his intention to fight former rival Michael Chandler at this event. He also emphasized the significance of the occasion by revealing his commitment to a rigorous six-month training regimen leading up to the bout.

As the UFC finalizes plans for its White House card, the promotion’s leadership continues balancing regulatory enforcement with promotional strategy, with names such as Jon Jones, Sean O’Malley, and Alex Pereira waiting in line. While McGregor’s current suspension has placed his immediate future in doubt, Dana White appears determined to proceed with caution.

Fans react to Dana White avoiding questions about Conor McGregor’s suspension

Media coverage of Dana White’s recent remarks has highlighted his careful approach when addressing Conor McGregor’s suspension. Multiple outlets noted that White deliberately avoided confirming McGregor’s availability for the UFC White House card, instead redirecting inquiries to the organization’s internal compliance team.

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

Analysts have pointed out that White’s deflection served a dual purpose: it protected the UFC from speculation and ensured that regulatory processes, led by Jeff Novitzky’s office, were given priority. Observers have noted that by deferring to Novitzky and the UFC’s anti-doping protocols, White reinforced the promotion’s commitment to compliance without prematurely influencing the public.

Some observers have interpreted Dana White’s deflection on Conor McGregor’s suspension as a strategic marketing decision. Analysts have noted that by avoiding a definitive answer, the UFC has maintained public interest and speculation surrounding McGregor’s participation in the White House card.

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