mma

Dana White raises eyebrows with political stance despite Donald Trump ties

Yahoo Sports

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC Dana White’s long-standing friendship with Donald Trump always fuelled the perception that the UFC boss strongly aligns himself with conservative political values in the United States. That image only intensified after UFC officially announced a card at the White House, celebrating 250 years of American Independence. However, White surprised many observers on Friday after discussing his political identity and insisting people often misunderstand his relationship with Trump and the Republican movement.

Dana White says he leans liberal despite Donald Trump friendship Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC Speaking during an appearance on The Breakfast Club radio show, White rejected the idea that he should be viewed as a far-right political figure. “I’m not an overly political person either. I consider myself right down the middle or leaning a little liberal, to be honest with you,” he stated during the interview.

“Everybody thinks I’m some far-right guy because of our relationship,” the UFC president added while discussing his close bond with Trump. White also insisted that the connection between the president and the UFC should not be interpreted as an attempt to establish the promotion as a politically conservative sports brand. According to the UFC boss, Trump’s prestige inside the company only exists because of their personal friendship that began 25 years ago and not because of any ideological campaign linked to the organisation.

Dana White rejects blame for Donald Trump political influence White additionally addressed criticism suggesting his platform helped influence younger male voters towards supporting Trump and conservative political values in the United States. The UFC president said he does not personally feel responsible for decisions or controversies surrounding Trump’s government and political movement. However, he acknowledged that people could see it that way.

“I guess if that’s the way you want to look at it, it’s all my fault. That’s not the way I look at it, but I guess I could see why you would look at it that way. And you could frame it like that,” the 56-year-old businessman concluded.