JRE #327 – Dana White

This podcast features Joe Rogan in conversation with Dana White, the president of the UFC. They discuss a wide range of topics, from the UFC’s rise to prominence to the complexities of the fight game. Controversial and provocative themes are explored, including the use of testosterone replacement therapy, the dangers of brain damage in combat sports, and the UFC’s relationship with media and other organizations.

Major Topics:

• The UFC’s Rise to Prominence: Joe and Dana reminisce about the UFC’s early days, highlighting its humble beginnings and remarkable growth. From small, regional events to a global phenomenon, the UFC’s success is attributed to Dana’s business acumen, the appeal of mixed martial arts, and the evolution of the sport itself.
• Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) in MMA: A heated discussion about the use of TRT in mixed martial arts, its potential benefits and risks, and its ethical implications. Dana expresses his skepticism towards TRT, citing the potential for abuse and the difficulty of regulating its use.
• Brain Damage in Combat Sports: Joe and Dana address the serious issue of brain damage in combat sports, discussing its impact on fighters, the responsibility of organizations to protect their athletes, and the long-term consequences of repetitive head trauma. The discussion also includes personal anecdotes, with Dana sharing his experience with Meniere’s disease, a condition he attributes to a past ear injury, and Joe reflecting on his own potential brain damage from years of boxing.
• The UFC’s Relationship with Media and Other Organizations: The podcast explores the dynamics between the UFC and various media outlets, including Spike TV and Fox Sports. Dana openly criticizes Spike TV for its treatment of the UFC, highlighting a sense of disrespect and a lack of appreciation for the organization’s success. He also discusses the UFC’s approach to dealing with other combat sports organizations, including Pride FC and Bellator MMA.
• The UFC’s Global Expansion: Dana discusses the UFC’s international expansion, emphasizing its growing popularity in markets like Japan, England, and Canada. He also talks about the impact of international fighters and the UFC’s efforts to reach new audiences worldwide.
• The UFC’s Fan Base: Dana and Joe reflect on the UFC’s passionate fan base, highlighting their diversity, their dedication to the sport, and the unique energy they bring to UFC events. They also discuss the challenges of managing fans, particularly when it comes to ticket sales, security, and crowd control.
• The Importance of Timing in Fighting: The discussion touches upon the crucial role of timing in combat sports, emphasizing its importance in both striking and grappling. Dana highlights how fighters who master timing can gain a significant advantage over their opponents.
• The Evolution of Mixed Martial Arts: Dana reflects on the evolution of mixed martial arts, noting how the sport has evolved from its early days of brawling and wrestling to a more sophisticated and technical style. He also talks about the role of traditional martial arts in modern MMA, highlighting the importance of well-rounded fighters who possess a diverse skill set.
• The Role of the UFC in Combating Antisocial Behavior: Dana argues that the UFC provides a positive outlet for people who have a natural inclination for violence, suggesting that prohibiting fighting could lead to an increase in antisocial behavior. He believes that the sport can channel aggression in a safe and controlled environment, promoting discipline and respect.
• The Importance of Discipline and Respect in the Fight Game: The podcast emphasizes the importance of discipline, respect, and mental fortitude in the fight game. Dana stresses the need for fighters to prioritize their health and well-being, avoid excessive partying, and maintain a professional attitude.
• The UFC’s Commitment to Athlete Safety: Dana discusses the UFC’s commitment to athlete safety, outlining their efforts to implement stringent drug testing policies, ensure proper medical care, and promote responsible training practices. He acknowledges the risks involved in fighting but emphasizes the organization’s desire to protect their athletes.
• The Influence of the Culinary Union on the UFC: Dana expresses his frustration with the Culinary Union, highlighting its relentless efforts to shut down the UFC due to its association with the Station Casinos, which are non-union. He criticizes the union’s tactics as gangster-like and emphasizes the lack of support for their cause among casino workers.
• The UFC’s Business Model: Dana offers insights into the UFC’s business model, discussing its reliance on pay-per-view, sponsorships, television deals, and the importance of creating compelling content. He also shares his perspective on the economics of the fight game and the challenges of running a successful combat sports organization.
• The Role of Personality in the Fight Game: The podcast explores the importance of personality and charisma in the fight game, with Dana discussing how fighters like Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz have used their personalities to build their brands and attract fans. He also touches on the role of media in shaping fighter personas and the impact of social media on the sport.
• The Future of MMA: Dana offers his vision for the future of mixed martial arts, expressing his confidence in the sport’s continued growth and global appeal. He also discusses the UFC’s plans for expansion, including new weight classes, events in new markets, and the development of new technologies to enhance the fan experience.

Memorable Quotes:

• “There is no reason to live in Los Angeles and make that commute every day. If you have to do that commute every day, you need to fucking move. I’d kill myself.” – Dana White on the absurdity of Los Angeles traffic.
• “We were the red-headed stepchild of the Fortita portfolio.” – Dana White on the initial skepticism towards the UFC within the Fortita company.
• “I’m a hardcore traditional fucking to the bone fight fan. I wanna see a dude coming out of the bowels of the fucking arena through a tunnel and threw a crowd of arms and hands sticking out and people going crazy. I love that shit.” – Dana White expressing his preference for traditional fight entrances.
• “She’s a £150 beast. Okay? But she cuts away to make 135. A 150. Yeah. Solid woman?” – Dana White on Ronda Rousey’s physical prowess.
• “You don’t wanna lock horns with an Olympian. You know?” – Dana White on the dangers of facing Ronda Rousey in the octagon.