Dana White supports FBI director Kash Patel’s proposal for a partnership between the UFC and the FBI, where UFC fighters would train agents in mixed martial arts to enhance their self-defense skills, arguing that it is a logical and beneficial collaboration.
Dana White insists there’s zero controversy in FBI director Kash Patel’s proposal for a UFC-FBI partnership. It just makes sense, he says.
Back in February, Patel suggested UFC fighters could train FBI agents. This was during a meeting with heads from various FBI field offices across the U.S. Initially, some folks were skeptical.
But guess what? Patel was “dead serious” about it. The idea is to equip agents with more skills for their jobs.
Patel, a huge fan who attended UFC 314 in Miami last weekend, has been discussing this with White. The UFC CEO thinks it’s a win-win for field agents.
“For those unaware, UFC fighters have trained law enforcement and military personnel for years,” White told Fox News. “Hand-to-hand combat? They should know jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai—basic MMA stuff.”
People love to stir up controversy, but White sees none here. He believes all agents should be fit and capable of self-defense. And yes, he and Patel have had serious talks about it.
Though no official deal is on the table yet, White’s optimistic. The UFC is ready to assist the FBI however they can.
White’s right about the longstanding bond between fighters and law enforcement. Renowned coach Greg Jackson ran a program in New Mexico for cops and SWAT teams.
Also, John McCarthy, perhaps the most famous MMA referee, worked as a tactics and self-defense instructor for the LAPD.
Looking ahead, White believes this relationship would greatly benefit agents eager to expand their skill sets.
“Law enforcement officers need to defend themselves without firearms if necessary,” White emphasized.
In the end, it seems like a logical step forward—no drama required.