“Don’t Watch It” – Dana White Audaciously Dismisses Fans’ Concern With Declining Interest in UFC

UFC CEO Dana White talks about fans being disappointed with the title rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes.

“Don’t Watch It” – Dana White Audaciously Dismisses Fans’ Concern With Declining Interest in UFC

Dana White doesn't care about what fans think (via X)

After the $7.7 billion UFC Paramount deal, fans expected major changes and exciting matches from the promotion in 2026. However, CEO Dana White shocked everyone by announcing a featherweight title rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes. The fight headlines UFC 325 and has received heavy criticism from fans questioning the matchmaking and overall promotional direction. 

The pair fought each other back in April 2025, where Volkanovski won the fight via unanimous decision, clearly outclassing the young contender. Instead of having him fight other top featherweights, UFC’s decision to make the rematch was confusing. In a recent interview, Dana White was asked about the criticism regarding this matchmaking, and the CEO just didn’t care. 

If you don’t like it, don’t watch it. It was just the fight that made sense. Should be a good fight.

Dana White via Complex 

Many have argued that Volkanovski should face top contenders like Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy based on UFC rankings and momentum. Evloev is undefeated in UFC and has been in the title discussion for over a year now, and accused UFC of ignoring him.

Murphy is also undefeated, scoring a spectacular knockout of Aaron Pico and prompting calls for immediate title contention against Volk. The English striker is a relatively new name to mainstream UFC fans, and Evloev didn’t fight at all in 2025. As such, the promotion may have decided to award a title shot to one of the most active fighters on the roster in Diego Lopes.

‘The Great’ was also motivated towards fighting a new opponent, but had no choice but to go with what the UFC wanted him to do. Volkanovski has mentioned that by beating Lopes at UFC 325, he will be available for a quick turnaround to fight anyone. 

Lopes claimed a victory would earn him a trilogy with Volkanovski or opportunities against several dangerous new contenders. Meanwhile, criticism surrounding UFC consistency, lackluster events, and uninspiring fight nights has continued circulating among fans for months. 

On top of that, Dana White has been accused of not promoting major fights with the any excitement anymore. Recently, he faced criticism from experts for a lackluster announcement regarding former champion Israel Adesanya’s comeback fight at UFC Seattle. Many believe the veteran promoter is now more focused on other ventures rather than prioritizing UFC’s growth properly. 

Dana White denies Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler fight at the White House event 

Since the White House event announcement, Conor McGregor has discussed fighting Michael Chandler, confidently sharing predictions about their potential matchup. Chandler also expressed excitement, claiming all signs suggested the fight was inevitable and supporters should remain hopeful about confirmation.

Dana White isn't interested in Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler
Dana White isn’t interested in Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler (via X)

Both fighters were previously scheduled for UFC 303, creating massive anticipation among fans across the global community worldwide again eagerly. However, an pinky toe injury forced McGregor to withdraw, leaving the highly anticipated contest officially cancelled.

Despite continued discussion, hopes remained alive because both competitors kept publicly acknowledging the possibility of eventually fighting. However, in a recent interview, Dana White completely denied the fight would ever happen, given the lack of narrative now. 

No, that was a couple years ago.

Dana White continued.

Conor McGregor responded by saying he is ready for anybody and does not care who UFC selects for him next. The ‘Notorious’ has been training intensely while following a spiritual path, preparing for his long-awaited comeback fight. 

Nate Diaz remains one of the biggest potential opponents because their history continues attracting global attention from fight fans. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see which rival McGregor faces when official announcements finally arrive publicly.

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