Dana White and rumors about his retirement have drawn an interesting response from Sean O’Malley. Speaking on a recent episode of his podcast along with his coach, Tim Welch, the UFC bantamweight champion revealed what he would do if the UFC CEO were to end his time with the promotion.
His statements reflect the sentiments put forth by UFC color commentator, Joe Rogan, who has previously stated that if “If Dana (White) leaves, I’m gone”. As such, it’s interesting to note that O’Malley feels the same way but he also revealed why he thinks the rumors of White’s retirement are overblown. Let’s take a look at what ‘Sugar’ had to say!
Dana White retirement rumors draw an interesting response from Sean O’Malley
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UFC CEO Dana White’s role in taking the UFC to unimaginable heights is no secret. White has been instrumental in taking the promotion from a niche spectacle into a global phenomenon under his leadership. Therefore, when during a recent podcast episode, Sean O’Malley was told that rumors were floating around about Dana White’s retirement he responded with an honest confession.
While his coach Tim Welch, who was also present during the discussion, stated, “That’s gotta be a rumor”, regarding the news about White’s retirement, O’Malley was more candid in his response.
He stated, “I’d probably quit. Dana quits, I quit”, echoing Joe Rogan who has stated on multiple occasions that his association with the UFC is dependent on White’s presence in the company. O’Malley also revealed that he doesn’t believe that White will retire as long as he is still fighting!
The champ confessed, “Dana is not retiring while I’m here, Dana loves big fights and I’m the f**king biggest thing in the world.”
He also went on to humorously envision a scenario in which former UFC fighter and current analyst, Chael Sonnen, were to become the President of the UFC! The conversation reflects the camaraderie and humor prevalent in the MMA world, with fighters engaging in playful speculation about the future of the UFC leadership.
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Despite the humorous tone, the underlying theme suggests a collective acknowledgment of Dana White’s pivotal role in shaping the UFC landscape. And while Conor McGregor has recently come out to state his displeasure with the promotion, White has made an intriguing response to the statements!
White responds to Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor’s recent public expression of frustration with the UFC has drawn a swift response from the organization’s CEO, Dana White. McGregor, sidelined since July 2021 due to a fractured tibia and fibula suffered during a bout with Dustin Poirier, voiced impatience with the promotion’s handling of his return.
Attending a boxing event in Saudi Arabia, McGregor criticized the UFC’s treatment and stated that his patience was “wearing thin.”
In response, Dana White addressed the situation during an Instagram live Q&A, assuring fans that discussions are ongoing. He stated, “We talked tonight, “I’m in Abu Dhabi, he’s in Dubai. We’re gonna figure something out. We’re talking.””
Dana White on Conor McGregor: 'We talked tonight. I'm in Abu Dhabi, he's in Dubai. We're gonna figure something out. We're talking.' pic.twitter.com/yPc1sNrem0
— Oscar Willis (@oscarswillis) December 28, 2023
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The dialogue between the fighter and the UFC leadership underscores the importance of effective communication in the world of professional mixed martial arts. As the UFC strives to accommodate one of its biggest stars, the outcome of these discussions will likely influence the trajectory of McGregor’s return that fans have been eagerly awaiting!
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Do you think Dana White will retire soon? And will Conor McGregor’s comeback be confirmed in the coming weeks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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