Dana White has a knack for managing UFC fighters, balancing their careers with the organization’s growth. His decisions often prioritize what’s best for the athletes while driving the UFC’s success. After UFC 310 in Las Vegas, White made waves at the press conference by calling out three UFC veterans and suggesting they retire. This isn’t new for Dana—he once advised Tony Ferguson to hang it up after watching him struggle in another tough loss.
So, he cares about the fighters’ well-being. He was asked about their futures after seeing UFC veterans Clay Guida, Anthony Smith, and Chris Weidman suffer tough losses. Dana didn’t hold back, suggesting it might be time for them to consider stepping away from the octagon.
In his words, “They should all retire tonight.”
Clay Guida’s career hit another rough patch with a 79-second submission loss to Chase Hooper, extending his losing streak to three. His UFC future looks bleak at 43 and with a 38-25 record. At 37-21, Anthony Smith also struggled, falling to Dominick Reyes via TKO.
Similarly, despite coming off a win, Chris Weidman has now lost three out of his last four fights. With his recent struggles, retirement is looking likely for him, just like it is for Clay Guida and Anthony Smith. These three veterans’ careers seem to be nearing their end in the UFC.
Dana White On Patricio Pitbull’s UFC Interest
Dana White doesn’t just give retirement advice; he also takes jabs at competitors. After UFC 310, when a reporter mentioned Patricio Pitbull’s interest in joining the UFC and leaving the PFL, Dana mocked the organization. He pointed out recent PFL struggles like canceled events and fighters missing bouts, implying financial troubles. According to Dana, such issues are why fighters like Pitbull are eager to switch to the UFC, where things seem more stable.
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Dana White is asked about Patricio Pitbull wanting to come over to the UFC because he's not getting fights:
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) December 8, 2024
You guys know what the fuck's going on. When you see that start to happen, you're running out of money, things aren't looking good. You're gonna have people that want to… pic.twitter.com/j6WbF5wn9O
If the UFC boss sees potential in a fighter, he ensures they get a shot. A great example is when a fighter boldly asked for an opportunity at a press conference, and Dana made it happen—straight out of a movie scene. So it will be interesting to see if he signs the PFL Star.