Dana White Talks Trump Friendship and Meta Board Role in Tucker Carlson Interview

Dana White Discusses Longstanding Friendship with President Trump

On February 2, 2025, UFC President Dana White sat down with Tucker Carlson for an in-depth interview, shedding light on his personal and professional relationship with President Donald J. Trump. Starting at the 1:30 mark, White elaborated on how their friendship began over two decades ago when Trump, then a prominent businessman, hosted UFC events at his venues in Atlantic City. White emphasized the unwavering support Trump provided during the early, challenging years of the UFC, describing him as a loyal friend who stood by the organization when few others did. This bond has only strengthened over time, with White openly expressing admiration for Trump’s commitment to American values and his leadership style.

White highlighted specific instances of Trump’s involvement, noting how the President has attended numerous UFC fights and consistently shown enthusiasm for the sport. This personal connection underscores White’s appreciation for Trump’s dedication not just to him, but to the broader community of fighters and fans who value strength and perseverance—qualities White associates with the President’s approach to governance.

Joining the Board at Meta: A New Chapter for White

At around the 11:28 timestamp, the conversation shifted to White’s recent appointment to the board of Meta, the parent company of Facebook. White discussed his surprise at the opportunity and his initial discussions with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. He expressed a commitment to bringing a fresh perspective to the tech giant, particularly on issues of free speech and content moderation, which have been contentious topics for many Americans concerned about censorship. White’s role on the board is seen as a potential bridge between traditional business values and the evolving digital landscape, reflecting his belief in open dialogue and robust debate.

While details of his specific contributions remain under wraps, White hinted at a desire to ensure that platforms like Meta remain spaces where diverse opinions can thrive. His involvement signals a broader trend of influential figures from varied industries stepping into tech governance, aiming to balance innovation with accountability.

Addressing the Bryce Mitchell Controversy

One of the more serious topics covered, beginning at the 18:32 point, was the controversy surrounding UFC fighter Bryce Mitchell’s recent comments praising Adolf Hitler during a podcast. White did not shy away from expressing his disgust, stating, 'What he said makes me sick... but we have to protect free speech.' This stance reflects White’s commitment to individual expression, even when he fundamentally disagrees with the content. He made it clear that while Mitchell would not face punishment from the UFC for his remarks, the organization does not endorse or condone such views.

White’s handling of the situation has sparked discussions on the balance between free speech and responsibility within sports organizations. His decision to uphold Mitchell’s right to speak, while publicly condemning the remarks, aligns with a broader push against cancel culture, emphasizing personal accountability over institutional censorship. Additional reports confirm that Mitchell later clarified he is 'definitely not a Nazi,' attempting to distance himself from the backlash that followed his initial statements.

Broader Themes: Free Speech and Cultural Shifts

Towards the 22:22 mark, White and Carlson delved into the future of the anti-censorship movement, with White expressing cautious optimism about its longevity. He argued that protecting free expression is crucial for maintaining a society where ideas can be challenged and debated without fear. This segment of the interview resonated with concerns about the direction of public discourse, particularly in digital spaces where moderation policies often draw criticism for perceived bias.

Additionally, at the 27:39 timestamp, White touched on the decline in viewership for major sports leagues like the NFL and NBA, attributing it to their handling of cultural and political issues. He contrasted this with the UFC’s focus on sport over activism, suggesting that fans prefer entertainment unmarred by external agendas. This perspective highlights White’s belief in keeping core American pastimes focused on competition and unity.

In summary, Dana White’s interview with Tucker Carlson provided a multifaceted look into his personal values, professional endeavors, and unwavering support for President Trump. From his new role at Meta to navigating controversies within the UFC, White remains a staunch advocate for free speech and traditional principles, reflecting priorities that resonate with many who value straightforward leadership and individual liberty.