White discusses his future role
Dana White skipped the press conferences during the UFC’s final PPV week of 2025, yet he still addressed the media afterward. He responded to criticism of UFC 324 and commented on Tom Aspinall’s concerns about how officials handled his injury at UFC 321. He also shared his immediate reaction to the dramatic events at UFC 323. Many observers questioned whether his outside ventures shifted his focus, but no major change appears likely.
Long-term deal keeps White in charge until 2031
White appeared less frequently at UFC events in 2025 than in previous years. With Zuffa Boxing launching in 2026, fans speculated about a possible shift in his responsibilities. During the UFC 323 post-fight press conference, a reporter asked him about his contract status. White signed a seven-year extension in 2019, which would have made 2026 a pivotal point in his tenure. He revealed that he already signed a new five-year extension and will remain president and CEO until 2031. He joked that he earned another renewal.
UFC faces major structural changes in 2026
White intends to stay, but 2026 will still mark a major shift for the UFC. The organisation will leave the traditional PPV model behind. US fans will watch numbered events through Paramount+ without paying an added PPV fee. UFC co-creator Campbell McLaren explained in an interview how this move could reshape the company’s strategy. He said fans previously bought only the fights they wanted to see, and the subscription model might influence matchmaking decisions. He wondered whether White will continue to prioritise fan-demanded fights or focus more on financial efficiency. McLaren expects significant changes under the new streaming deal.
