UFC head honcho Dana White may sometimes come off as slick and self-serving, much like many other powerful figures, but his genuine kindness and big heart shine through when it matters most. While White & Co. are often in the news for their charitable contributions, showing that the UFC is about more than just fighting, they also use their platform to champion important causes. One noteworthy example is the UFC’s recent support for a cancer facility in Las Vegas, where they helped establish a youth training room.

Former 205lbs kingpin and TUF legend Forrest Griffin played a key role in making this happen. This is just one of the many charitable initiatives by the company, reinforcing that the UFC’s reputation is built not only on the fight game but also on its commitment to helping cancer patients and others in need. Recently, Dana White’s generosity and genuine character were highlighted by Canadian pop star Drake, who shared a touching story.

Drake recently spoke with Adin Ross, a long-time UFC fan, and told a memorable tale from the early days of the UFC. “Shout out to Dana White, by the way, who supported you. And that was love, bro. Shout out to Dana White. I told you a crazy Dana White story, right? You didn’t tell him?”

He continued, “I didn’t. I saw him one time, and I will never forget it. I saw Dana White in the early UFC days, and one of the most amazing things that taught me about etiquette and treating people well was how to make them feel special when they least expect it. I remember seeing Dana White tip a girl who was just really engaged with him at the bar, being a great human in that moment. This was probably around 2014, and he gave this girl $15K, no reason, just because she mentioned she wanted to be a photographer. He said, ‘15 should get you everything you want.’ She was floored. So, shout out to Dana White.”

Drake and Dana White’s relationship has been one built on mutual respect, often seen in Drake’s high-stakes UFC bets and public support for the organization. While their bond might not come off as formal, it’s genuine and has lasted through the years.

At the same time, White has been quietly changing lives. Take Cody O’Connor, a bone cancer survivor who gained attention in 2022—the Bossman stepped in with financial help and charity support to back his journey. It’s gestures like these that show the UFC is about more than just fights. Still, not every story ends on a high note, but the Bossman’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.

Throwback: Dana White remembers his 16-year-old friend Mikey Schneider

Dana White never imagined that a chance meeting would lead to a heartfelt bond with 16-year-old Michael ‘Mikey’ Schneider—a young fan who would go on to become part of the UFC family. Diagnosed with cancer at just 11, Mikey’s fight touched the lives of everyone around him, including the UFC head honcho himself. Their paths crossed at UFC 279, an iconic night remembered for the Nate Diaz vs. Tony Ferguson main event, hosted at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

That night became even more special when Mikey, whose dream was to meet White, was brought to the event through a ‘GoFundMe’ campaign organized by his loved ones. Upon Mikey’s arrival in Las Vegas, the Bossman went out of his way to make sure the teen had an unforgettable experience. From special access to behind-the-scenes moments, Mikey soaked in the energy of fight night, even leaving with his official wristband credentials—a token he cherished deeply.

Tragically, Mikey passed away not long after that memorable night. Deeply moved, Dana White took to Instagram to honor his young friend, sharing a photo of the two and writing: “Amazing, incredible, beautiful little Michael passed away today and I’m fuckin’ devastated. He held on long enough to make the event and I just want to thank EVERYONE involved with Saturday night that made his weekend special. My heart goes out to Michael’s friends and family and I want to thank you Heather and Brian for introducing me to him. I will never forget him.”

Despite the challenges, Dana White & Co. continue to dedicate themselves to good causes, inspired by stories like Mikey Schneider’s and the bartender White generously helped. This is just one chapter in their ongoing efforts, and there is surely more to come. Stay tuned for future updates.