Dana White (Image Source: Getty) Former WNBA star Angel McCoughtry has slammed UFC president Dana White for his remarks on Pride Month and LGBTQ+ representation in UFC. McCoughtry believes the UFC should do more to support the LGBTQ+ community. Similar to how other social causes are recognized across sports.Her comments came after White stated that the UFC would not host Pride-themed events or campaigns. While White maintains that a fighter’s personal life should remain private, McCoughtry argues that sports organizations have a responsibility to create inclusive environments and support different communities.
Angel McCoughtry says UFC should actively support LGBTQ+ initiatives
Angel McCoughtry challenged the UFC’s approach to LGBTQ+ representation during a recent interview with TMZ. She questioned why discussions about openly gay fighters remain rare in the sport. She suggested that the lack of visibility may discourage some athletes from publicly sharing their identities.According to McCoughtry, professional sports leagues regularly support causes that extend beyond competition itself. She argued that if organizations promote initiatives related to the military, domestic violence awareness, or community outreach programs. Hence they should also publicly support Pride-related events. In her view, such initiatives help athletes feel accepted. It also shows that leagues care about diverse groups within their fan base.The former basketball star also stressed that supporting Pride is not limited to members of the LGBTQ+ community. She explained that many people participate in Pride events simply because they believe in inclusion and equality. McCoughtry said support for Pride should be viewed as backing a community rather than making a statement about personal identity.She further pointed out that athletes often take part in educational programs and social initiatives that are not directly connected to sports. Because of that, she believes leagues can use their platforms to encourage understanding and acceptance while maintaining their focus on competition.McCoughtry’s comments came after Dana White stated in an interview that the UFC has no plans to hold Pride Nights or rebrand its logo during Pride Month. White explained that he prefers not to mix social causes with promotional activities and believes fighters should be judged solely on their performances inside the cage.However, UFC has featured LGBTQ+ athletes throughout its history. In 2013, Liz Carmouche became the first openly gay fighter to compete in the UFC when she challenged Ronda Rousey. More recently, fighter Jeff Molina publicly revealed he was bisexual after private information was leaked online. Throughout these situations, the UFC largely kept its focus on athletic competition. Rather than on one’s personal matters.