Trump Offers UFC Boss Dana White Press Secretary Role

President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he has offered Dana White, president and CEO of the UFC, the position of White House press secretary. This unexpected move aligns with Trump’s unconventional leadership style.

Dana White confirmed he will meet Trump on Monday at the White House following the news. White was in London for a boxing event when he made this announcement during a news conference. He expressed plans to fly to Washington immediately after the event.

When reporters asked White how he would manage this new role along with his existing commitments in the fighting industry, he seemed uncertain and remarked, “Yeah, I got a lot of jobs already.” He refrained from discussing any prior exchanges with Trump but mentioned that further discussions were likely.

White shared an Instagram post featuring Trump’s social media announcement. The post also included an image of White at the White House press podium with the words “On to the next chapter.” Both the White House and UFC representatives did not offer comments on Trump’s offer.

Trump’s Truth Social post also mentioned that he asked White to bring UFC fighters as “assistants.” Trump’s post aimed to bring unconventional dynamics to his press team, saying, “We need these people to defend us against the Lunatic Left. Dana will be a Press Secretary like none other.” White has not made clear his intentions about accepting the role.

During the news conference, White shared his ambitions about growing the Zuffa Boxing brand globally with his Saudi Arabian partners. Meanwhile, Trump’s White House is navigating a challenging period following the GOP’s significant election losses, which resulted in losing control over both congressional chambers.

Amid these transitions, Trump has announced internal changes, such as replacing longtime advisor Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller as the new chief of staff. Miller is noted for his role in shaping strict immigration policies within the administration.

The press secretary position has remained vacant following the brief tenure of Katie Zacharia, who left after only five days. Trump’s previous chief spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, departed in August.

Trump and White maintain a close friendship, with several UFC event attendances together post-Trump’s return to the White House in 2025. An event celebrating America’s 250th year and Trump’s 80th birthday was hosted on the White House South Lawn in June. The celebration included a wire-mesh Octagon, under “The Claw,” an elaborate setup with lights and sound equipment.

White, an active participant in Republican campaigns, spoke at the National Conventions in 2016, 2020, and 2024.