White outlines his long-term plans
Dana White skipped the press conferences during the UFC’s final PPV week of 2025, but he spoke extensively to the media after the event. He addressed criticism surrounding UFC 324 and responded to Tom Aspinall’s comments about how officials handled his injury at UFC 321. He also shared his reaction to the events at UFC 323. Many observers wondered if his other business ventures pulled his attention away from the UFC, but no major shift appears imminent.
White stays in charge until 2031
Dana White appeared less often at events in 2025 than in previous years. With Zuffa Boxing set to launch in 2026, many theorised about potential changes to his role. During the UFC 323 post-fight press conference, a reporter asked him about his contract situation. White signed a seven-year extension in 2019, which would have made 2026 a key moment in his career. However, he revealed that he already signed a new five-year extension and will remain CEO and president until 2031. He joked that they extended him again.
New strategic options in 2026
White plans to stay, but 2026 will still deliver major changes for the UFC. The organisation will move away from the traditional PPV model. US fans will watch numbered events on Paramount+ without paying a PPV premium. UFC co-creator Campbell McLaren explained in an interview how this switch could reshape operations. He said fans previously bought only the fights they truly wanted to see, and the subscription model could create new incentives. He wondered whether White will stay focused on fan-demanded matchups or shift towards bouts that offer economic advantages. McLaren expects notable changes through the new streaming deal.
