UFC president and chief executive Dana White has turned down an offer to join the White House staff, according to a report from AFP on Tuesday.
The 57-year-old, a long-time friend of President Donald Trump, was approached for a role in the administration but declined the opportunity. White has maintained a close relationship with Trump for years and helped organize a major UFC event on the White House lawn earlier in 2026.
White has led the Ultimate Fighting Championship since 2001, transforming the mixed martial arts promotion into a global sports enterprise valued at billions of dollars. His friendship with Trump dates back to the early days of UFC when the future president hosted events at his Atlantic City casinos.
The White House lawn event earlier this year featured a full UFC fight card and drew significant attention, highlighting the ties between the promotion and the administration. White's decision to remain at UFC keeps him focused on the organization's continued expansion, including new broadcast deals and international growth.
