UFC President Dana White Declines Idea of Pride Night Events
UFC President Dana White has definitively stated that the organization will not be hosting any dedicated Pride Night events. White expressed a lack of personal inclination towards such themed nights, despite the UFC’s history of celebrating diverse cultures through events like UFC Noche, which honors Mexican Independence Day.
White’s Stance on LGBTQ+ Inclusion
In a recent interview, White clarified that fans should not anticipate UFC Pride Night celebrations. He commented on the diversity of the UFC roster, stating, “I’m staring at my roster of top 15 fighters. You know, I’m assuming we have some gay fighters. I don’t know how many of them are openly [gay]. I know that we have gay female fighters. I don’t give a s***. I don’t care what you are, who you are, what you do. We don’t talk about that, any of that stuff.” He further added, “Everybody, do your own thing. I’m just not into it,” while referencing a UFC t-shirt featuring a rainbow flag.
Historical Context and Fan Reactions
The comments come as fans recall the UFC’s promotion of Pride-themed merchandise approximately a decade ago. During June, the organization offered shirts with the slogan ‘We are all fighters’ in rainbow colors, worn by several fighters at the time. However, these items are reportedly no longer available for purchase.
Openly LGBTQ+ Fighters in the UFC
The UFC has seen openly LGBTQ+ individuals compete. In March 2023, Jeff Molina became the first openly bisexual male UFC fighter. The promotion also has several openly lesbian female fighters, including former two-division champion Amanda Nunes.
White on Fighter Speech and Controversy
During the same interview, White also addressed a past controversy involving UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit. Hokit made viral remarks about former first lady Michelle Obama following a fight. White expressed his disapproval of the comments, stating, “You think I’m happy about what Josh Hokit said? I’m trying to unify the country and he goes out and says something absolutely stupid like he did that night, but I’m a believer of free speech too.”
