Even though Ronda Rousey hasn’t competed in the UFC for almost a decade, she still follows the organization closely and maintains a strong connection with Dana White. The former champion believes White’s presence is central to the UFC’s identity and its continued dominance in combat sports.
Dana White: The Driving Force
During a conversation with Bert Kreischer, Rousey explained why she sees White as irreplaceable in MMA.
“I think without Dana, its soul is gone,” Rousey said. “I love him so much. When Dana’s done, I think the dominant MMA organization title will be up for grabs. I think Dana is it. Without him, it’s just three letters.”
Her perspective reflects White’s long-term influence on the sport. Since acquiring the UFC with Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta in 2001 for about $2 million, White has overseen its transformation into a global brand valued in the billions. The promotion recently signed a $7.7 billion broadcast agreement moving its rights from ESPN to Paramount in 2026, further highlighting his impact.
Comparing UFC Leadership to WWE
After retiring from MMA in 2016, Rousey transitioned to WWE, where she worked under Vince McMahon. She noticed a clear difference in leadership approach between White and McMahon.
“Dana White wants his company to be as successful as possible and make as much money as possible,” Rousey said. “I think he’s got a lot to prove in that space. He’s got that new money kind of veneer. He wants to earn his respect in that space with all of his peers.”
“I think Vince didn’t really care how successful the company [was] or how much money he was making. He cared about how much influence he had on other people culturally. He was trying to impress his viewpoint on the world on everybody else through that. The bottom line be damned.”
Rousey made it clear that she preferred White’s business-focused approach to running an organization over McMahon’s style, which she felt prioritized influence over profitability.
Bert Kreischer: I love Dana White, but he is the star of UFC.
Ronda Rousey: When Dana’s done I think the dominant MMA organization, that title, will be up for grabs. Yeah, cause I think Dana is it. Without him, it’s just three letters. pic.twitter.com/zyDa23hK8d
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) October 31, 2025
Choosing Leadership
Reflecting on her experiences, Rousey summed up why she favors working with White.
“I mean I’m a capitalist,” Rousey said. “So [I pick] Dana.”
Whether UFC can maintain its position as the premier MMA organization when White eventually steps down remains an open question. For Rousey, however, one thing is clear: Dana White is the heart of the UFC.
Published on November 3, 2025 at 9:55 am
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