

For over three decades, Dana White has been the driving force behind the UFC’s meteoric rise. From a floundering, underground fight promotion to a global sports juggernaut, the UFC’s transformation under White’s leadership has been nothing short of historic.
As the promotion enters its 32nd year, the organization continues to thrive-now part of TKO Holdings-but much of its stability and identity still revolves around one man: Dana White.
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White’s impact on the UFC is undisputed. He’s built stars, expanded the sport globally, and turned MMA into one of the fastest-growing forms of entertainment. But even a legacy like his isn’t immune to controversy.
In recent months, growing frustration over Jon Jones’s inactivity as heavyweight champion has created waves. Critics argue that White has mismanaged the situation, leading to calls for accountability-and even demands for his resignation.
Amid public outcry, Joe Rogan stands by Dana White
The criticism escalated after Dana White revealed that Jon Jones had privately called him to vacate the heavyweight title and retire-only to later walk it back.
With interim champ Tom Aspinall left in limbo, fans grew restless. Online petitions soon followed, one of which has collected over 130,000 signatures demanding Jones be stripped of the belt. Another petition, more surprisingly, called for Dana White’s removal from the UFC.
But not everyone is turning against White. Joe Rogan, longtime UFC commentator and trusted voice of the sport, has come to his defense-again.
Appearing recently on a podcast with wellness expert Gary Brecka, Rogan praised White’s no-nonsense leadership style, calling him ‘the perfect guy to be at the head of such a chaotic sport’.
“Dana doesn’t care about pressure, about public outrage-he does what he thinks is right. He has real ‘f*** you’ money, and he’s earned the right to use it,” Rogan declared.
Rogan’s stance was clear: the UFC needs White’s tough skin and vision more than ever.
Their loyalty runs deep. Rogan’s relationship with White dates back to the UFC’s early days. After initially starting with backstage interviews, Rogan became a core part of the broadcast team thanks to White’s encouragement.
Over time, he evolved into the voice of UFC pay-per-views, helping shape the sport’s presentation to millions of fans. White once described Rogan as having “killer instincts” and called him “the best” in the business.
That connection is reflected in Rogan’s contract itself. It contains a rare clause: if Dana White leaves the UFC, Rogan has the right to walk away too.
Now, with UFC 318 around the corner, there’s one unexpected change-Joe Rogan won’t be on commentary. Paul Felder will take his place for the event, a surprise for longtime viewers. Still, Rogan’s absence isn’t permanent. As long as Dana White remains in control, his most loyal ally is never far behind.
With mounting fan pressure, growing online petitions, and increased scrutiny from all sides, the UFC finds itself at a crossroads. But with figures like Rogan in White’s corner, the organization’s leadership looks far from shaking.
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