Chael Sonnen reveals how Dana White is evolving the UFC's business model into something new in 2022

Dana White (left and center), Chael Sonnen (right) [Images Courtesy: @wermma, @fightsportitaliaofficial, and @sonnench on Instagram]

Dana White seems to be using new promotional tactics for the first time in over two decades, according to Chael Sonnen.

On a recent episode of Beyond the Fight, Sonnen discussed how some of the biggest stars across the present-day UFC landscape are largely absent. However, that does not seem to be affecting the business badly at all.

Also, there's seemingly less rush to get the big names signed for fights.

In addressing the shift in UFC's methods for promoting fights, Sonnen said:

"In 2001, when he [Dana] had a vision to start this organization, the mindset that he had and what he was positive he needed and put that with Dana White of 2022, they would be in disagreement with each other... The fights that we're getting, the ratings that we're doing. The sell out audience, the buzz around MMA is as strong as it's ever been."

'The American Gangster' also believes that the UFC president is less dependent on superstar fighters than he was 21 years ago:

"But 2001 Dana White would have been very clear to tell you there's no business here unless I have stars. I can have a roster that's light... Dana would have been right. For 21 years, that was absolutely what he needed. But we're in a different phase right now and it's got to be studied. You've got to understand what's happening to start to break down why."

Watch the video below:

Sonnen knows all too well how the UFC can promote a cluster of top stars. He was within that top tier of UFC fighters at one point. Sonnen had prizefights on big pay-per-views and key television broadcasts with three title bids over two divisions.

Chael Sonnen had two middleweight title bids against Anderson Silva at UFC 117 and UFC 148. Furthermore, 'The American Gangster' had a light heavyweight title fight against Jon Jones at UFC 159.

Dana White and his latest promotional effort

White was on the scene at UFC Long Island yesterday and in the days leading up to the event, indicated by his presence at the weigh-ins.

ORTEGA vs RODRIGUEZ! #UFCLongIsland is LIVE and FREE TOMORROW on @ABCNetwork at 2pm ET! https://t.co/Eqv7utDhc5

The UFC Long Island main event saw Yair Rodriguez emerge victorious via injury TKO over Brian Ortega in what was seen as a title eliminator by many.

In the co-main event, Amanda Lemos bested Michelle Waterson-Gomez via second-round guillotine choke in a battle between ranked strawweights. Waterson-Gomez was the No.10-ranked contender and Lemos was ranked No.11 at 115 pounds heading into the fight.