UFC CEO Dana White stated that FBI Director Kash Patel`s proposal for a potential collaboration between the UFC and the federal law enforcement agency is entirely sensible and not controversial.
In February, Patel floated the idea of involving UFC fighters to train agents during a meeting with FBI field office heads across the United States. Despite initial skepticism, White later confirmed that Patel was “dead serious” about developing a partnership to equip agents with enhanced on-the-job skills.
Patel, an enthusiastic UFC fan who attended UFC 314, has discussed this concept with White. The UFC CEO believes such training would be significantly advantageous for agents.
“For years, UFC fighters have been training law enforcement and military personnel,” White told Fox News. “When it comes to hand-to-hand combat, these individuals should be proficient in disciplines like jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and other fundamental mixed martial arts techniques.”
He added, “People try to find controversy in everything. There`s nothing controversial about this. All these agents should receive [MMA] training, maintain physical fitness, and be capable of defending themselves. Kash Patel was absolutely serious about this, and we`ve discussed it.”
While a formal agreement hasn`t been established, White appears confident it will materialize and emphasized the UFC`s readiness to assist the FBI in any capacity.
White`s point about fighters and coaches working with local law enforcement globally is accurate. For instance, renowned coach Greg Jackson previously ran a program in New Mexico training law enforcement and SWAT officers.
Similarly, John McCarthy, widely recognized as one of the best referees in MMA history, served as a tactics and self-defense instructor for the Los Angeles Police Department.
In the long run, the UFC CEO believes this relationship would greatly benefit agents by providing them with additional capabilities.
White concluded, “Anyone in these types of roles, any kind of law enforcement, should possess the ability to defend themselves without relying on firearms if the situation necessitates it.”
