5 Times Dana White Did the Unthinkable: Featuring the Surreal UFC White House Crossover

What makes it even more surreal is its scale. There is expected to be a custom-built arena, tens of thousands of attendees, and a full fight week. While not everyone is convinced of the idea, most UFC fans are looking forward to the card with great anticipation.

2) UFC 249 During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Back in 2020, when most of the sports world was shut down due to the global pandemic, Dana White made sure his promotion did not suffer. Despite UFC 249 facing several roadblocks and multiple cancellations, White gave his best to make the event a reality.

When it finally took place in Florida, it became one of the first live sporting events during the pandemic, and even paved the way for other leagues to get back on track.

3) Fight Island Becomes Reality

During the same time, another major issue was travel restrictions. As a result, fighters were unable to take international flights. Dana White came up with a master plan and made ‘Fight Island’ in Abu Dhabi. This was a bio-secure bubble where fighters could compete safely.

What seemed like a 3AM thought to many became a reality soon after. It wasn’t just innovative, it was necessary for the UFC to keep moving forward.

4) Signing Conor McGregor in UFC

Not every move appears big to the general masses at the time. When the UFC signed Conor McGregor in 2013, no one knew how it would impact the sport.

That gamble paid off well, and the sport gained immense popularity. While MMA was seen as a niche sport at the time, McGregor’s signing made UFC a global sport. In hindsight, it was the most important decision of Dana White’s tenure.

5) UFC-WWE Merger

The formation of TKO Group Holdings brought UFC and WWE under one umbrella. The move sent shockwaves through both MMA and WWE communities. Fortunately, it wasn’t just a business deal; it reshaped the combat sports landscape.

For Dana White, it was another example of thinking bigger than the cage. He aligned UFC with a global entertainment powerhouse, opening new doors for growth.