Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) president Dana White is a true problem solver. The promotional frontman is often a punching bag for verbal disagreements, fighter backlash and public scrutiny. White usually takes all of these quarrels in stride, but he’s having a real problem entertaining the growing idea of money fights on a continuous basis. Can we blame him?
“I’m getting tired of the term ‘money fights’,” said White in a recent interview with FOX Sports (shown above). “[Fighter’s say] ‘I want the money fights!’ What, are you all going to move down and fight Conor [McGregor]? Listen there’s no bones about it: Conor is the guy. Conor brings in big gates, big pay-per-view numbers and everything else. Shut up if you don’t.
“If you’re not him, shut up.”
Well, that’s one way to think about. It’s not a popular mantra to live by especially considering most fighters believe they’re worth more than they earn, but White has a point. Not everyone can sell like McGregor, so why would everyone expect to be paid like McGregor?
“Guys are talking about money fights, I’m like you’re not a money fight! Okay? You’re not a money fight,” exclaimed White. “You’re going to make whatever you’re going to make and if you’re a good champion and your fight sells, you’re going to do pay-per-views and you’re a partner in the pay-per-view.
“If you’re not that big pay-per-view star, shut up and fight.”
Could White be focusing some of his frustrations at this guy, who puts his title on the line later tonight (Mar. 4, 2017) at UFC 209? You be the judge.
Either way, El Presidente is no longer taking calls. Unless, of course, your name is Conor McGregor.
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