UFC head honcho Dana White, with over two decades as an MMA promoter, has established himself as one of the top businessmen and entrepreneurs in the world. Through his ruthless business tactics, he transformed the once dime-valued MMA promotion into a $4 billion global powerhouse. Even after the sale of the UFC, White, as its CEO, continues to ensure its success remains strong.

Amid the MMA frenzy, White ventured into the world of slap fighting with the launch of the ‘Power Slap’ promotion in 2023, showcasing another variant of interesting yet brutal hits. However, every success comes at a cost. White’s decision has faced heavy criticism, with some calling it a poor investment, criticisms echoed by his close friend, UFC commentator and podcaster Joe Rogan, on his show.

Joe Rogan criticizes Dana White’s move to venture into ‘Power Slap’

Rogan was recently joined by former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya on his JRE MMA Show #164, where they dove into the ongoing hot topics in the current MMA scenario, including the Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. fight. Adesanya suddenly shifted the conversation back to the realm of kickboxing, expressing that it’s “too limiting” for him.

Joe Rogan chimed in, emphasizing ONE Championship’s wide array of combat sports under its banner, claiming, “I like how ONE FC has everything. They have grappling matches, kickboxing matches, Muay Thai matches, and MMA matches. I think that is the way to go, and I wish the UFC would do that.” He then scrutinized Dana White’s move to invest in ventures like ‘Power Slap,’ stating, “I know they’re invested in this slap-fighting sh-t, but instead of that, they could have a kickboxing league. I think they don’t believe people would get into kickboxing, but I think they’re wrong.”

This is the first time someone has questioned White’s new venture and its questionable investment strategy. However, concerns about its health risks have already been raised in the combat sports industry, with big names like Ryan Garcia and Sean O’Malley frequently criticizing the dangerous health impacts on the body, especially at the neurological level.

Sean O’Malley and Ryan Garcia open their minds on ‘Power Slap’

Since its inception, ‘Power Slap’ has become a focal point of controversy and for the right reasons. However, the sentiment is now shared by many individuals, both in and outside of the UFC. Prominent names like Ryan Garcia and Sean O’Malley—who typically do not support each other’s ideologies, found common ground in their disdain for ‘Power Slap.’

Garcia labeled it as “a terrible idea that needs to be stopped,” while O’Malley dismissed the whole notion of the promotion, stating, “I can’t watch it. I understand concussions; I’ve been through them. I know how bad it is to do that to your brain. On the other hand, some people, like UFC superstar Conor McGregor, have been frequent supporters of Dana White’s $500 million business venture, once voicing his support for the promotion by declaring, “I am a fan of this.”

What are your thoughts on Joe Rogan’s remarks? Do you believe that Dana White has wasted his money on ‘Power Slap’ instead of investing in a multi-combat sports promotion like ONE Championship? Drop your opinion below.