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via Imago

Dana White’s role in the UFC’s success cannot be overstated. As the organization’s head honcho since 2001, ‘DFW’ has been the driving force behind transforming the promotion from a struggling, niche entity into a global powerhouse. When White took over, the UFC was far from the mainstream success it is today. The sport faced challenges such as limited popularity, legal hurdles, and a lack of regulation– an era more famously known as ‘The Dark Ages’.

Under White’s leadership, the UFC has expanded globally, signing high-profile sponsorships, negotiating lucrative broadcasting deals, and building a brand that resonates worldwide. Now, White is looking to try his hand at boxing and appears to be very serious about it. It sounds surprising, but it might just become a reality. White dropped some intriguing hints after Tuesday’s episode of Contender Series in Las Vegas, sparking speculation.

This comes right after Turki Alalshikh, the GVA head, revealed plans to establish a boxing “super league” adding more fuel to the fire of potential UFC involvement in the boxing scene. Home of Fight recently took to their Instagram page to share the news with a caption that read, “Dana White is in advanced discussions to create a new boxing league in Saudi Arabia with TKO Group Holdings also involved.”

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Looking at the track record of the 55-year-old, one can be sure that he will set up some interesting fights. However, the MMA community isn’t quite impressed with the news. Most of them are skeptical that a man who was once against the sport can suddenly become a fan of it. Let us take a look at what they had to say about it!

Fans reject Dana White’s rumored ‘homecoming’

Dana White’s decision to try his hands in the world of boxing has raised more than a few eyebrows. As the UFC head honcho, White has always been a staunch advocate for MMA, often expressing disdain for the god-forsaken world of boxing. Some argue that he’s looking to capitalize on boxing’s massive potential, especially with the rise of high-profile fighters and pay-per-view events. Let’s take a look at what the fans had to say!

The recent buzz surrounding White potentially entering the boxing scene has sparked mixed reactions. However, one user had no interest in watching the event as revealed by him, “I have no desire of watching boxing. It hasn’t been the same since forever.” Another fan pointed out the irony, questioning if White has already given up on boxing, perhaps implying that his past criticisms or lack of interest in the sport should keep him focused on MMA instead, “Didn’t Dana give up on boxing?”

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One user pointed out how Dana White could have the biggest names in the league and he’d still have Callum Walsh headline as he has a good relationship with him and commented, “He could have the biggest names in the league and I bet he’d still have Callum Walsh headline.” Rumors suggest that Conor McGregor will be making a comeback but not in MMA but in boxing.

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One user used this opportunity to point out that this might be because of White’s interest in boxing and commented, “Is this why they’re making Conor vs whoever in boxing?” On the other hand, a fan critiqued Dana’s low pay structure, suggesting that no fighter would want to work for him unless he significantly increases fighter compensation. This point highlights ongoing issues in both MMA and boxing regarding fighter pay and management and commented, “He pays too cheap ain’t no one want to fight for him unless he ups that pay.”

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Finally, some find it hard to believe that Dana, who was recently critical of boxing, could be looking to enter the sport again. For these fans, his flip-flopping stance just doesn’t sit right, leaving them questioning his true intentions. They quipped, “Dana in boxing. Again. Please no.” White has single-handedly taken the UFC to new heights and is continuing to keep up the good work going. However, one user doesn’t want to see him take up boxing and commented, “Would ruin boxing.”

In sum, Dana’s potential entry into boxing has stirred up skepticism and disappointment from fans who feel strongly about the direction of both sports. But the big question is will he achieve the same success he did in the UFC? Or will he fail to impress the fans who are already opposing it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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