Dana White isn’t opposed to influencer boxing, but believes the lack of quality will stop it from ever truly taking over.
When White took over the UFC alongside the Fertitta brothers in 2001, the sport of MMA was widely considered something of a sideshow not dissimilar to how celebrity bouts are viewed now. However, he believes that the ultimate staying power of their top level athletes was a huge player in keeping fans.
Generally, an influencer show will be heavily marketed by antics during pre-fight press conferences and events. However, the fights are often underwhelming and White believes they never leave a lasting impact on those who view them.
Dana White was asked during an appearance on Deontay Wilder’s new ‘heavyweight truth’ podcast what he thinks about the recent influx of social media stars getting in the ring. While some like Jake Paul and Chase DeMoor take it seriously, others don’t train at all and put on embarrassing showcases in the ring.
This, White says, is what causes fans not to come back as opposed to MMA or professional boxing where legitimate stories can be told. “A professional f—ing fight is over and it’s a f—ing good fight?” White explained. “You’re like ‘...