Dana White Still Awe Struck Over Donald Trump’s Toughness After Surviving Assassination Attempt

UFC CEO Dana White revisits and commends US President Donald Trump surviving the 2024 Pennsylvania assassination attempt.

Dana White Still Awe Struck Over Donald Trump’s Toughness After Surviving Assassination Attempt

Dana White commends Donald Trump (via MMA Fighting, BBC)

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Since the UFC’s rise as a global promotion, CEO Dana White has formed public relationships with influential figures. One of his most enduring bonds has been with US President Donald Trump, whom White has consistently spoken highly of in public settings over the years. That support was again visible when he recently discussed the assassination attempt involving the president in July 2024.

White and Trump’s relationship began in 2001, when the UFC faced significant backlash across many US states over the violent image of MMA. During that period, Trump offered crucial support by allowing UFC events at his Mar-a-Lago property and the Trump Taj Mahal Resort and Casino. Since then, White has remained publicly appreciative, often appearing at Trump’s rallies and major campaign speeches.

The assassination attempt took place on July 13, 2024, in Pennsylvania during a campaign rally, where Trump was wounded and taken offstage by security. He later stood up with visible blood on his face and raised his hand toward the crowd, a moment that was widely broadcast. White recently referenced that incident while discussing Trump during an interview with prominent journalist Stephen A. Smith.

He’s the most resilient human being I’ve ever met in my life. He’s tough as nails. And then after the attempted assassination, just the most bad*ss presidential thing I’ve ever seen, the way he handled that whole thing. It’s movie sh*t.

Dana White via The Stephen A Smith Show

The incident became one of the most widely broadcast and discussed moments of 2024 across global media outlets. Figures connected to the UFC, including commentator Joe Rogan, publicly addressed Trump’s response and its visual impact. At the same time, other observers questioned the authenticity of the moment, suggesting it was used to generate political sympathy and influence public perception.

The relationship between Trump and the UFC CEO has continued to strengthen as the UFC prepares to stage its first-ever MMA event at the White House on June 14, 2026. Trump is closely involved in overseeing the historic card, highlighting the growing connection between politics and combat sports. The event also interestingly coincides with the President’s 80th birthday and the United States Flag Day.

The UFC has become an important platform for Donald Trump, reflecting his long-standing connection to combat sports and its leadership. The significance of the White House event was highlighted by the postponement of the 2026 G7 summit due to scheduling conflicts. In that context, Dana White’s recent comments underscored the depth of their relationship and growing influence.

Dana White clears out speculations about Donald Trump’s personality

Donald Trump is widely criticized worldwide for his polarizing political stance and unconventional leadership style. His policies on immigration, trade protectionism, climate change, and foreign relations often departed from established international norms. Trump’s direct rhetoric, frequent confrontations with the media, and skepticism toward global institutions contributed to strong opposition.

Dana White and Donald Trump
Dana White and Donald Trump (via MMA Fighting)

Dana White has consistently supported the US president while dismissing narratives that criticize his character. He has repeatedly portrayed Trump as loyal, resilient, and dependable based on their long personal association. White has also described Trump as personable in private settings, someone whose company he values. Those views were reinforced again through his recent remarks.

The horrible things that people were saying about him were furthest thing from the truth. He is the nicest guy in the world, and he is a really good friend.

Dana White via The Stephen A Smith Show

Dana White’s comments carry broader implications, underscoring how major sports executives can shape public perception beyond the field of play. His continued defense of Donald Trump reflects the growing intersection of sports leadership, politics, and media. Such remarks contribute to ongoing debates about the role of celebrity voices in modern public discourse.

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