“When All the Celebs Had to Cash Out…”: 3 Years After His Tragic Death Emotional Dana White Opens Up About “Good Guy” Kobe Bryant’s UFC Investment

Kobe Bryant is arguably one of the best NBA players to have ever played the sport. He was also a good friend of UFC president Dana White. The 53-year-old promoter recently took some time to talk about the 5-time NBA champion during his appearance on the famous sneaker show, ‘Complex’.

Kobe Bryant is one of the most loved figures in NBA history. In addition to being a 5-time NBA champion, he was also an 18-time All-Star, and a two-time NBA Finals MVP. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2020 in a helicopter crash that also claimed the life of his daughter. Dana White recalled his time with Kobe Bryant and was visibly emotional about it.

Dana White revealed that Kobe Bryant invested in the Endeavour deal

The UFC president revealed that he shared a very close bond with the LA Lakers legend. Moreover, he revealed that Bryant had also invested in the UFC-Endeavor deal back in 2016. Dana White said, “I knew him personally. He and I were friends, and he actually invested in the UFC.” He added, “When Endeavour bought [the UFC], they let all their clients come in and take a piece. He took a piece.”

Furthermore, Dana White claimed that Bryant had the same champion mentality that Michael Jordan had, which propelled him to a successful career. In addition to that, the 53-year-old promoter also said that he was one of the best people he had been friends with. “Not only was like [Michael] Jordan [had] the same mentality, which I love and respect so much, but he was an incredible human being,” said White.

Kobe Bryant was excited about his UFC investment

Dana White was filled with sorrow when he heard that the Lakers’ legend passed away. Moreover, he still remembers that day and what he was doing at that moment when the news broke. He said, “He was such a good guy. I’ll never forget where I was and what I was doing when I heard that Kobe died. He further added, “When all the celebs had to cash out their UFC thing, it was like days before he passed away. He was super pumped about the investment and I love Kobe.”

There was a point in time when the celebrities, who invested in the promotion, had the opportunity to convert their shares into cash. However, Kobe Bryant didn’t do that immediately because he was excited about keeping himself invested in one of the biggest fight promotions in the world. Unfortunately, he never got the chance due to the tragic accident that sent shockwaves to the whole sporting community. 

READ MORE: “Sisters Were Rolling, We Were Dying”: Adjusting to “Tripping” Culture, Young Kobe Bryant Once Found Comfort in “Weird” Times

Kobe Bryant has left an everlasting impression on the sporting community. His fierce persistence and determination made him a fan favorite and one of the best players ever. Bryant was also highly respected by players from other sporting disciplines as well.

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