When Dana White shared the truth about how Donald Trump helped UFC survive during it’s darkest days
UFC boss Dana White was one of the individuals who extended their support and reiterated their faith in Donald Trump after the recent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. White and many other prominent MMA personalities have close personal relationships with the 78-year-old and there is a solid reason behind their staunch support for him.
Trump helped the UFC survive the initial dark phase when White and the Fertita brothers, Frank and Lorenzo, acquired the promotion and found little support due to the the sport's 'violent' nature.
At the 2016 Republican National Convention, White shared the truth about how Trump helped the UFC survive and grow:
"It was basically considered a blood sport. The state athletic commissions didn't support us, Arenas around the world refused to host our events. Nobody took us seriously, nobody... Except Donald Trump!"
White said that Trump was one of the first individuals who recognized the growth potential of MMA and the UFC. He encouraged White and his partners to build the business and extended his unconditional support:
"He hosted our first two events at his venue, he dealt with us personally, he got in the trenches with us and he made a deal that worked for everyone. Donald championed the UFC before it was popular, before it grew into a successful business and I will always be grateful. So grateful to him for standing with us in those early days."
Check out Dana White's comments below (0:45):
Trump also shed light on the dark phase of the UFC during his appearance on UFC Unfiltered and explained that the sport was perceived as "just like death." However, he welcomed the promotion to host events at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. UFC 28, UFC 30 and UFC 31, all took place at the venue.
Dana White shared his thoughts on why Donald Trump was the right person to lead the nation
Continuing further in his 2016 Republican National Convention speech, Dana White extended his support for Donald Trump's presidential campaign. He passionately shared his thoughts on Trump's understanding of business and economic activities. He concluded the speech by telling the crowd why Trump was the right person to lead the USA. The 54-year-old said:
"You can really tell a person's true character when they're happy for somebody else's success. I think that sense of loyalty and commitment will translate into how he will run this country. We need somebody who believes in this country, we need someone that's proud of this country and who will fight for this country." [3:11 onwards in the above video]
Trump has received a massive response from UFC fans during his recent appearance at pay-per-view events. Following the Pennsylvania shooting incident, Dana White took to Instagram and reiterated his stance on Trump being a warrior at heart.