5 UFC fighters who Dana White loves
UFC President Dana White is a polarizing figure in mixed martial arts. A brash and outspoken personality, White has never been shy about expressing his sincere thoughts about others, including fighters who compete under the UFC banner.
The resulting consequence of this line of behavior is Dana White feuding with a fair number of people in the MMA world.
Whether they're his own fighters or MMA journalists who pose hard-hitting questions, no one is spared from White's wrath. Despite the UFC President's reputation for being ill-tempered, there are those with whom he seems to get along well.
For example, White has a well-known friendship with the likes of Matt Serra, Matt Hughes, and Forrest Griffin, two of whom he gave jobs to in the promotion after the end of their fighting careers.
This list details 5 UFC fighters, active and otherwise, who Dana White likes based on various factors.
#5. Donald Cerrone
It's no secret that the UFC, and by extension Dana White himself, appreciates fighters who are willing to fight frequently and even step in on short-notice to replace injured fighters.
During his peak, Donald Cerrone was one of the most reliable fighters on the entire UFC roster. Cerrone fought as often as five times per year, and between 2013 and 2016, he fought at least four times every year.
For all the times Cowboy Cerrone stepped up when no one else would, Dana White says he will return the favor and give Cowboy one last fight at 155. Who should it be?
Source, TSN: tsn.ca/ufc/video/dana… https://t.co/oMBquk4Oi7
'Cowboy' is noted for his quick turnarounds as well, having once fought Benson Henderson 15 days after defeating Myles Jury at UFC 182. This endeared him to Dana White, who treated Cerrone well, allowing him to fight well past his prime only due to 'Cowboy's insistence despite the 7-fight winless streak he was on prior to his retirement.
The UFC has released fighters for far less, so Cerrone's ability to remain with the promotion despite the massive downward spiral his career took was a testament to how well-liked he was by the UFC brass.
Furthermore, White made several attempts to honor Cerrone's desire to retire after a fight with Joe Lauzon before mutual injuries derailed the booking of the bout. Upon hearing of 'Cowboy's retirement at UFC 276, White was complimentary and genuine.