UFC 297 is right around the corner. But, the card happens to be a massive success even before it began. It is reported that the gate for the event at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada has broken records as it amases approximately $7,600,000 in gate revenue. This feat is not uncommon for the organization. In recent years, UFC has garnered popularity and the numbers have advanced the same.

However, amidst this success and numbers, who shall this be credited to? The fighters? Sure. After all, they are the backbone and ultimately put on the show. But is there a mastermind behind this? Find out what a former middle-weight title contender has to advance.

The behind-the-scenes business acumen

Chael Sonnen, also known as a ‘street Kid From Boston,’ and a middleweight title challenger recently weighed in on this revelation. He rightfully pointed out that neither of the main event fighters: Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis are hometown fighters. Moreover, the market also recently celebrated holidays. To then be able to sell out at such a price point is nothing to scoff at.  According to him, the credit goes to none other than the president of the UFC, Dana White.

On his YouTube Channel, he stated, “Things like we can’t tell Dana a good job. We can’t pat him on the back and tell him good job.” He adds, “But now we took these two guys and we’re going to have them fighting in Canada. What in the hell are you talking about? Why would anybody want to see that? Well, they did—18,100 of them. 18,100 people that got there before all the other people wanted to get there, as a matter of fact.”

Indeed, White has played a paramount role in the capacity of a promoter in the UFC. He has a strong business acumen but most importantly, he understands the fight business better than anyone arguably. However, this has not been the sole instance Sonnen has lauded the CEO of UFC publicly.

Chael Sonnen is all praise for Dana White

Back in March of last year, The WWE and UFC merged to work together for future events. This news made headlines in the sports world inviting distinct takes. However, amidst all this, Sonnen was simply awestruck—not just by the merger but by White. According to him, it is breathtaking to witness the rise of the UFC and how White has been the backbone throughout it all. He stated, “For that 12 billion that UFC is worth you could have had the WWE and had him throw the Lakers in. Just so you could understand. You’d have them two for what Dana has turned the company in two decades man. It’s shocking.”

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It is safe to say that Sonnen is quite fond of White. His comments are quite novel given the CEO often finds himself susceptible to criticism by many in the business.

But we are more so interested to know, what do you make of White and his involvement in the company? Share with us in the comments below.

Read more: “His Body’s Already Given Out on Him”: Chael Sonnen Advises Free Agent Francis Ngannou To Call Dana White and “Get Back in the UFC”