Why Did Dana White Miss UFC 291 Press Conference?

Published 07/31/2023, 5:04 AM EDT

A lot unfolded over UFC 291 fight week. While the UFC 291 press conference went underway, the fans expected a typical Dana White mediation between the fighters. But Jon Anik walked in and took his place. Left bewildered, the fans floated some theories. But the question remained: how could the UFC President abandon one of the most exciting cards of the year?

UFC 291 took place on July 29 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Headlined by the BMF title fight between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, the PPV was one for the ages. Besides, the co-main event featuring Alex Pereira‘s debut in the 205-pound division against Jan Blachowicz gave the division a direction ever since Jamahal Hill relinquished the title. Amid the UFC festivities, the UFC head honcho puzzled the fans with his absence while the UFC card went through an upheaval.

Why is Dana White missing UFC 291?

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The 54-year-old, according to MMA journalist Mike Bohn, is currently in Italy on vacation. He turned to his Twitter handle and updated the fans on this crucial information. Further, he also disclosed Jon Anik would fill in for White.

He wrote, “With Dana White vacationing in Italy, I’m told @Jon_Anik will host today’s #UFC291 pre-fight press conference.”

This tweet quenched the fans’ curiosities. The UFC head honcho is one of the busiest people on the planet, and it is rare to see him taking a break from the job he loves. However, it appears White is enjoying his break as he falls back into one of his old habits.

On the other hand, the fans didn’t miss White, as they loved the presence of Anik on the presser.

Jon Anik replaces Dana White as host of the UFC 291 press conference

The 45-year-old commentator stepped up for the occasion and left everyone impressed with his spirit. The fans went to the extent of calling him the next UFC President in the future. After handling the duties during the press conference, the fans also spotted Anik on the commentators’ desk during UFC 291.

However, these remarks might not suit former POTUS Donald Trump, who believed the UFC couldn’t replace White. He said, ” Everybody’s replaceable. I don’t think this guy [Dana White], is replaceable.”

“Future President of the UFC”: Dana White Vacationing Right Ahead of Massive UFC 291 Sees Fans Rooting for Jon Anik as Veteran Analyst Replaces President in Major Role

What separates the UFC boss from others is his innate sense of matchmaking and gauging the mood of fighters and fights. He always comes up with a solution if the fight card faces any hiccups. Such a hiccup also resulted in dropping a main card fight at UFC 291.

Major UFC 291 Fight Cancelled Following Failed Weigh-in

The MMA fighters have struggled with weight-cutting issues, and such a scar also marred UFC 291. Michel Pereira weighed three pounds above the limit when he hit the scales. UFC correspondent Megan Olivi broke the news before the ceremonial weigh-ins that the exciting fight between Pereira and Stephen Thompson was off.

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Pereira was scheduled to fight Stephen Thompson, who was coming into the fight on the heels of a spectacular win against Kevin Holland. ‘Wonderboy’ then turned to his Instagram handle to explain the situation.

He pointed out how the fighters who miss the weight face less stringent actions and are allowed to fight with a comparative advantage. The 40-year-old also hoped the decision not to move forward with the fight would discourage the others. Lastly, he declared, “I’m not here to be a gatekeeper, I’m here to fight for and win a UFC Welterweight Title.”

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It is not sure when Thompson will return to the Octagon next, but he is keen to give a final push to his title aspirations.

Watch this story: Jorge Masvidal Wins the Race Against Mike Tyson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Triple H to Become Dwayne Johnson’s Successor at UFC 291 for the BMF Title

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Written by:

Rohit Lohan is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports, with a passion for the sport that has spanned over a decade. His fascination with MMA stems from the thrill of knockouts, and he strives to bring that same level of excitement to his writing. Rohit's love for gripping stories is reflected in his articles, where he masterfully weaves together the latest news with compelling narratives.

Edited by:

Yeswanth Praveen

Why Did Dana White Miss UFC 291 Press Conference?

Why is Dana White missing UFC 291?

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Jon Anik replaces Dana White as host of the UFC 291 press conference

Major UFC 291 Fight Cancelled Following Failed Weigh-in