Dana White Opens Up About His Interaction with Obama at Trump’s Inauguration
In a candid conversation on “60 Minutes,” UFC president Dana White finally addressed a brief but meaningful interaction he had with former President Barack Obama during Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony earlier this year. The exchange, which had been the subject of speculation among fans and media, revealed a more nuanced perspective on White’s political stance than many had assumed.
White, who has become a significant figure not just in sports but in the political landscape as well, emphasized his nonpartisan approach to his position as the head of UFC. “I am an American citizen. Biden was my president. Trump is my president,” White stated firmly during the interview with CBS host Jon Wertheim. This declaration came in response to accusations from some fans that the UFC has been politically one-sided, particularly given White’s visible support for Trump over the years. White has been a consistent presence at Trump events since 2016, appearing at Republican National Conventions and various rallies in support of the former president.
Addressing the specific moment at the inauguration that had sparked rumors, White recounted how he was seated behind the former presidents when Obama turned around—the only former president to do so—and extended his hand. “President Obama turned around, the only president that did, and shook my hand and said, ‘Congratulations on all your success,'” White recalled. His simple response, “Thank you very much Mr. President,” reflected a moment of mutual respect that transcended political divisions. This interaction, which White had never before discussed publicly, contradicted suggestions that he had been “mad-dogging” the former president during the ceremony.
White went on to emphasize that his respect extends to all presidents, regardless of political affiliation. When asked how he would respond if Obama expressed interest in attending a UFC event, White’s answer was unequivocal: he would welcome any current or former president with appropriate respect. “The sitting president or the ex-president of the United States wants to come to your event, you treat them with respect,” he explained, dismissing the notion that he would merely tell a former president to “buy some tickets and good luck.” This statement highlighted White’s understanding of the significance of the presidency as an institution deserving of respect, independent of partisan politics.
The UFC president’s comments offer a glimpse into the complex relationship between sports, business, and politics in America today. While White has never hidden his personal support for Trump—who has attended numerous UFC fights before, during, and after his presidency—his remarks suggest a more balanced perspective than is often portrayed in media narratives. The revelation about his exchange with Obama demonstrates that professional courtesy and mutual respect can exist even between individuals with different political leanings, a refreshing reminder in today’s polarized climate.
White’s disclosure comes at a time when the boundaries between sports and politics continue to blur, with athletic organizations and their leaders increasingly facing pressure to take political stances. By sharing this previously untold story, White seems to be advocating for a more nuanced approach—one that acknowledges political differences while maintaining respect for American institutions and the office of the presidency, regardless of who occupies it. His example suggests that even in a divided America, there remains room for civility and respect across political lines.
