President Donald Trump has dismissed speculation that UFC chief executive Dana White could become the next White House press secretary. Trump said on Sunday that his suggestion was only a joke. His comments followed a social media post that attracted attention because of White’s close ties to the president.
Speaking to reporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump said he had never seriously considered giving White the position. He explained that the post was meant to be funny and was not an announcement of a planned change in his administration.
Trump also said White liked the idea of becoming press secretary. However, he made clear that the suggestion was not part of a real plan to bring the UFC leader into the White House.
The issue began on Saturday when Trump shared a post about White on social media. He described the UFC chief as a fighter and warrior. The president also shared pictures of several current and former UFC champions.
Trump suggested that these fighters could serve as assistants to White if he took the press secretary position. He said they would be needed to defend the administration against what he called the “Lunatic Left.”
The post drew attention as Republicans prepare for a new political challenge. Democrats are set to take control of Congress, and Trump’s comments pointed to a more confrontational approach toward his political opponents.
On Sunday, Trump explained that the pictures of the fighters were also part of the joke. He said he had posted them as possible assistants for White to make the suggestion more entertaining.
Trump also confirmed that White would visit him at the White House on Monday. However, he said the meeting had been arranged for other reasons. He did not link the planned visit to any discussion about a government position.
White has led the Ultimate Fighting Championship for more than 20 years. During that time, he has helped turn the organisation into one of the most recognised names in mixed martial arts.
His relationship with Trump has also become a major part of his public profile. White has supported Trump for several years and has appeared with him at many political events.
White played an active role in Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. He used his connections in the sports world and his public platform to help attract support for the Republican candidate.
His support also helped connect Trump’s campaign with UFC fans. The sport has a large following in the United States, and White’s public appearances with Trump brought attention to their political partnership.
Trump has also shown a strong interest in mixed martial arts. He has attended several UFC events and often appeared alongside White. Their relationship has continued beyond campaign activities and public appearances.
Earlier this year, the UFC also held fights on the White House lawn. The event brought the sport into a major political setting and highlighted the close links between Trump and the organisation’s chief executive.
White’s presence at political events has made him a familiar figure among Trump’s supporters. However, his main role remains leading the UFC, where he oversees one of the world’s biggest mixed martial arts promotions.
The press secretary position is very different from his current job. The role requires regular contact with journalists and the public. The person in the position must explain presidential decisions, answer questions about government policy and respond to criticism of the administration.
The position also becomes especially important during periods of political tension. The press secretary serves as a key link between the president and the media.
Trump’s remarks came as his administration prepares to deal with a new Congress. Democrats are expected to take control of the legislative branch, creating fresh political challenges for the president and his Republican team.
His Saturday post used UFC fighters as a symbol of the political fight ahead. However, his comments the following day made clear that the idea of appointing White was not serious.
For now, White is expected to remain at the head of the UFC. His close relationship with Trump is likely to remain visible through sports and political events, but there is no indication that he will take over the White House press office.
The episode shows how Trump’s social media comments can quickly attract attention, especially when they involve well-known figures from outside politics. In this case, the president has clarified that the proposed appointment was simply a joke.
