Ahead of UFC Vegas 67: Strickland vs Imavov, Dana White made a surprise appearance. Speaking to the press on media day, White gave answers and clarifications that fans have been waiting for.
Unsurprisingly, the UFC head honcho was quickly flooded with questions regarding the slapping incident on New Year’s Eve. Once again, the UFC boss was firm in his stance, apologizing and making no excuses. Moreover, it is understood that White will continue with the UFC, for the time being.
Speaking about the incident, White has his say. “All the criticism that I have received this week is 100 percent warranted and will receive in the future and you know me, especially when the people that I don’t like start coming after me, nobody fires back more than I do. Everybody has an opinion on this and they’re right to have their own opinions. I was very opinionated on this too and I still am.”
Further, Dana talks about the repercussions of his actions and what his future holds. “Here’s my punishment… I have to walk around for however long I live, and this is how I’m labeled now. My other punishment is that I’m sure a lot of people, whether it be the media, fighters, friends, acquaintances, who had respect for me might not have respect for me now.”
Additionally, White believes that his resignation would be more detrimental to the fighters and the organization than himself. As such, White feels that he will have to live with his tarnished reputation and public image, whilst continuing his work for the UFC.
UFC fighters who supported Dana White
Ever since making his return to the UFC, the outrage and hate for Dana have seemingly simmered, for now. Previously, fighters like Sean O’Malley, Derek Brunson, and even Brendan Schaub, had their say on the matter.
Whilst everyone, including Dana himself, admits that he was in the wrong, his response has been appreciated. Fighters and fans insist that White has handled the situation the best he could. White can only hope that people will forgive him for the incident and eventually, media personalities such as Ariel Helwani, will end their pursuit of him.
As such, let’s take a look at how people on Twitter reacted to the 53-year-old’s return to the UFC:
he’s taking the best route towards vindication. Is he sincere? Who knows.
— Red (@redhobbs) January 12, 2023
That does show character.. not escusing what he did at all, but still
— Will0116 (@Will01162) January 12, 2023
There isn't two sides. She hit him and he then hit her. It's the only truth.
— Gabriel Smith (@GabeSmith92) January 12, 2023
When you get slapped so hard like that, it's hard not to retaliate
— HonLemonT (@HonLemonT) January 12, 2023
Although I don't agree with Dana White but I respect the route he's taking! As usual men would've to give in! FYI, women are no longer ladies & vulnerable as they used to be! If women hit 1st, it's OK to hit back! We all are "equal" here! Ask the feminists!
— Joe69Shifter (@joe_maran) January 12, 2023
All jokes aside. Handled it the right way. https://t.co/jZUDGKkeCf
— Brendan Schaub (@BrendanSchaub) January 3, 2023
Was Dana White wrong , “YES” . Men shouldn’t hit women. Do I feel this is a reflection of who Dana White is , NO. Dana has been a component of second chances . I think speaking up against the topic and maybe sit out two events is fair! He admitted he was wrong !
— Derek Brunson (@DerekBrunson) January 3, 2023
Apart from the slapping incident, old accusations of Dana’s infidelity had resurfaced as well! In an exposé, White’s mother June White aired the UFC President’s dirty laundry, stating that he also had an affair with his sister-in-law and some UFC ring girls.
With so much incriminating evidence against him, it will be a while before Dana White can move forward from it. In the meantime, should he actively appear at UFC events and conferences? Do you think Dana should have been given a harsher punishment? Leave us your thoughts in the comments below.
