Dana White constantly faces scrutiny for his decisions as UFC president. Fans, analysts, and media alike question which fighters he signs, which contracts he ends, and what changes he should make. Even respected voices like Joe Rogan have openly debated some of White’s choices over the years.
In 2026, the scrutiny moves into boxing. Promoters such as Eddie Hearn have analyzed White’s plans for the launch of Zuffa Boxing, showing the same intense attention his actions attract in MMA.
A Press Conference Gone Awry
Ten years ago today, Robbie Lawler defeated Carlos Condit at UFC 195, defending his welterweight title in a fight many called the year’s best.
At the post-fight press conference, White announced that the main event fighters would arrive shortly. He answered questions while waiting, but one reporter jumped the gun. He confused Albert Tumenov, who had just beaten Lorenz Larkin on the undercard, with Lawler and asked a question meant for the champion.
After a brief, awkward pause, White highlighted the mistake immediately. Laughing, he said, “Oh, you thought that was Robbie Lawler? You cover this sport? You thought that was Robbie Lawler?” He joked that Tumenov could forward the question to Lawler. After breaking the long silence, Ariel Helwani took the mic to continue the press conference.
The Reporter Looks Back
The journalist, Case Keefer, reflected on the error days later in an article for the Las Vegas Sun. He called it a “media blooper” and explained how panic set in mid-question.
Keefer admitted he had failed to double-check who stood on stage before speaking. “There’s a second or two of awkward near-silence in the video,” he wrote, “but inside my head, it felt as loud as Condit’s arena entrance.” He joked that unlike Lawler, he did not recover with composure after the mistake.
The incident remains a classic moment in UFC history. It demonstrates how White, known for his direct style, can flip the script and turn a media gaffe into an unforgettable press conference highlight.
