Dana White has been responsible for building UFC fighters into stars. From the early days of the UFC, White has been instrumental in the rise of Chuck Liddell, Matt Hughes, Ronda Rousey, and Conor McGregor. Despite fans criticizing the UFC CEO for the promotion’s treatment of its fighters, White has maintained cordial relationships with many of the athletes throughout the years.

Recently, on an episode of ‘This Past Weekend’ podcast, White gave fans a look into his relationships with UFC fighters. The comments indicate that White was deeply impacted by the fighter’s decision to retire from the sport. In fact, he revealed a heartfelt take on why Khabib Nurmagomedov retiring from the UFC was especially tough for him!

Dana White reveals how Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement impacted him

In a recent conversation between comedian Theo Von and UFC CEO Dana White, Von delved into the emotional side of White’s role, asking if there was a fighter retirement that truly affected him. White opened up about the early days of the UFC, describing it as a close-knit family. He revealed that fighters like Chuck Liddell, Matt Hughes, and Rich Franklin were not just athletes; they were guests at White’s home during holidays.

The camaraderie was palpable, making it challenging for White to see these fighters retire. He singled out Ronda Rousey, with whom he shares a particularly close bond. Rousey’s retirement was tough on White, reflecting the genuine relationships formed within the UFC family.

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Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement was another poignant moment for White. Despite the understandable reasons for retiring, White felt Khabib had more to offer the sport. He stated, “Khabib was a tough retirement, yeah, you know, coz I think Khabib had so much more to offer and so much more to accomplish.”

However, the untimely passing of Nurmagomedov’s father played a significant role in his decision. The loss took away the joy ‘The Eagle’ found in the sport, ultimately leading to his retirement. White revealed, “But I think when his dad passed away, it kind of sucked the fun of it for him. And he was done, plus he made so much money, he never has to do anything ever again!”

As such, the retirement was bittersweet for White. While recognizing it as a tough decision, White respected Khabib’s choice to prioritize personal well-being over continued competition.

The conversation also offered a glimpse into the complex emotions that accompany retirement in the world of mixed martial arts. But a former UFC fighter has also revealed that turbulence with the UFC and Dana White led to him exiting the promotion!

Former UFC champion slams White for his exit from the UFC 

Eight years after his last UFC bout, Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson dismisses any hope for a reconciliation with Dana White. The fracture in their relationship traces back to 2012 when Jackson claims White’s post-fight remarks after his loss to Ryan Bader in UFC 144 soured their connection and his overall perception of MMA. And in an episode of the ‘Jaxxon’ podcast, ‘Rampage’ revealed why he left the UFC behind. 

The rift deepened when Jackson, nursing a meniscus tear, decided to fight in Japan. Despite expressing his determination to compete, Jackson alleges that White’s subsequent negative comments during the press conference shattered his passion for fighting. He revealed that White stated in a press conference, “I don’t know what’s going on with Rampage. I don’t think he has it. I don’t think he wants it any more.”

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Jackson’s account highlights the complex relationship Dana White and the UFC have with fighters. Despite White’s statements about Nurmagomedov’s retirement being tough for him, Jackson’s comments indicate that many other athletes do not have the same relationship with the UFC CEO. 

Do you think Dana White’s close relationship with UFC athletes is good for the promotion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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