Dana White Addresses The Rumors About Ben Askren

Jake Paul once again blurred the lines between fighter and promoter this time, stepping up in a major way for a former opponent turned MMA veteran. Following his June 28 victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Paul pledged to donate $500,000 to help cover Ben Askren’s medical expenses for a much needed surgery. True to his word, the YouTuber turned boxer followed through immediately, making the sizable contribution.

As news of Askren’s condition spread through the combat sports world, Paul took the opportunity to both lend support and call out UFC president Dana White, saying it was shameful that White hadn’t stepped in to help one of his former fighters:

“It shouldn’t be me having to do this. Where’s Dana? Where’s the UFC money?” Paul said post fight.

The gesture has reignited debate about fighter pay, long-term health care, and promoter responsibility  especially for retired athletes dealing with the physical toll of years in combat sports.

Dana White responds

Paul’s critics often question his motives, but in this case, he has put his money where his mouth is and once again kept the spotlight on fighter welfare in a sport that too often leaves its veterans behind.

When asked directly about Ben Askren’s medical situation following the UFC’s July 12 event in Nashville, Dana White offered a rare, candid acknowledgment

“Yeah. I usually don’t talk about that stuff. But yes, I did,” White said when pressed on whether he had contributed financially to help cover Askren’s surgery.

“We reached out to his wife as soon as we heard, and told her if there’s anything else you need. Yes, I did. I did. Yeah, I did. Yes.”

White also added “I just don’t like talking about that s*. That’s between us. But yes.”