Dana White Reveals the Only Time He Ever Saw Donald Trump Break

Dana White reveals the rare moment Donald Trump showed vulnerability following Ivana Trump’s death in 2022.

Dana White Reveals the Only Time He Ever Saw Donald Trump Break

Dana White with Donald Trump (via X)

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Dana White has been one of Donald Trump’s most outspoken supporters for years, consistently praising the former president’s toughness, resolve, and refusal to back down under pressure. Their relationship spans more than two decades, built on early business ties and loyalty forged through changing circumstances.

Long before the UFC became a global powerhouse, Trump played a pivotal role in the promotion’s survival in what were known as the ‘Dark Ages’. During the organization’s most uncertain days, he opened the doors of his Trump Taj Mahal venue to White, giving the UFC a crucial platform when few others would.

That gesture laid the foundation for a lasting bond. Over time, Trump became a familiar presence at UFC events, and the professional relationship naturally evolved into a close personal friendship. White has often described Trump as unshakable, a man who thrives amid criticism, controversy, and public scrutiny.

But in a past interview with Lex Fridman, the UFC CEO revealed a side of Trump few have ever seen, recalling a rare moment after Ivana Trump’s death when the famously resilient figure showed genuine emotional vulnerability.

One time I called him, and he was not good. He was a mess, and I’ve never heard him like that. And I’ve never seen him like that when Ivana died. The only time I’ve ever seen him (expletive) up. Look at all the stuff that’s gone on with Trump, all the bad stuff that they say. They’re trying to attack him. They’re trying to ruin him. Unfazed. I called him that day, and this is the first time I’ve ever seen that guy busted up and not good. 

Dana White via Lex Fridman

For the unversed, Ivana Trump was a Czech-born American businesswoman, model, and socialite, best known as Donald Trump’s first wife and the mother of three of his children. Beyond her public profile, she played a significant role in shaping the Trump brand, holding executive positions within the Trump Organization and overseeing major projects, including the Trump Taj Mahal.

However, Ivana passed away on July 14, 2022, after sustaining blunt impact injuries to her torso as a result of an accidental fall at her New York City home.

In 2024, Trump survived an assassination attempt during one of his campaign rallies in Pennsylvania, as the bullet just missed him. White immediately called him and praised his strength, courage, and refusal to let fear control his political journey. During the election campaign, White supported Trump with several speeches and public interviews.

Many UFC fans and fighters also backed the current POTUS, showing support across events, social media platforms, and public political discussions. His podcast with UFC veteran Joe Rogan was a massive hit, viewed by millions of viewers. White was offered a position in Trump’s administration, but he refused to join politics.

The upcoming UFC White House card in June 2026 is highly anticipated, with White and Trump having openly discussed its potential. According to the UFC CEO, this event will become the greatest fight card in promotion history.

Dana White doesn’t want russian fighters at the White House event?

The UFC White House event has attracted several top fighters like Jon Jones and Conor McGregor, increasing global attention among fans. According to Donald Trump, the event will feature seven to eight title fights, making the card extremely competitive.

Dana White on the White House event
Dana White on the White House event (via X)

Dana White has shared intricate details about the event, including planning and structure, which immediately captured worldwide fan interest. There are several reports suggesting that the White House event will mostly have American fighters.

However, during the UFC 322 presser, White mentioned that it isn’t like that and fighters like Islam Makhachev can absolutely feature on the card.

It’s not an America vs. The world. It’s like what’s the best card we can build. 

Dana White via UFC 322 press conference 

However, in a recent interview, former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili confirmed Russian fighters might not receive that opportunity. Since the promotion has three Russian champions, it will be interesting to see how officials handle this complicated competitive equation carefully.

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