Dana White has defended the controversial comments he made about soccer in 2012.
The UFC CEO bashed the world’s hottest sport during an interview 14 years ago.
“Soccer? Can’t stand soccer,” White said. “It’s the least-talented sport on Earth. There’s a reason three-year-olds can play soccer.”
The clip still goes viral on social media every few months, but does Dana White still hate soccer?
- LATEST NEWS: Dana White explains why Paddy Pimblett reminds him of Conor McGregor ahead of UFC 324
Is there any shocks on the Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes in 2025 list?
Dana White still hates soccer
Dana White was asked in regards to the infamous comments he made about soccer during a recent appearance on Big Boy TV.
The UFC CEO desired to get one thing straight before talking about his deep dislike of the game.
“That wasn’t recent. That was like 15 f—ing years ago,” White said.
The 56-year-old went on to recap his viral interview and double down on every thing he said about soccer.
White added: “What I said was, ‘It’s the least talented sport.’
“I can’t remember the way it began or how we got talking about it, but I said, ‘There’s a reason three-year-olds play it.’ I said, ‘When the online is the scale of that wall, and the rating is 1-1…’
“Then you definitely speak about hockey, right? I’m not a giant hockey fan. These dudes skate 110mph on ice, bent over with a crooked stick. The goal is the scale of the guy standing in front of it, and anyone can f—ing murder you at any time. You understand, that’s a [talented sport].
“I’m not a soccer fan. I’m not a giant soccer fan. Listen, I like [Cristiano] Ronaldo, I actually have a terrific relationship with him. I like him. No disrespect to any of the fellows, but I’m just not a soccer fan.
Dana White or Eddie Hearn: Who’s the most effective promoter?
Pick your favorite combat sports promoter
Join the controversy; share your insight. Use the comment button on the underside left to have your say
Dana White’s relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo
Soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo struck up a relationship with Dana White in 2025.
The previous Manchester United and Real Madrid player was sitting within the front row when Israel Adesanya got knocked out by Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia in Riyadh last February.
After the fights were done, Dana White opened up about his experience with the largest star in sports.
“I’m not a giant soccer guy,” the MMA mogul said.
“So far as superstars, he’s one in all the largest superstars ever.
“You understand what I like about him, too? As popular, as successful, and as wealthy as he’s turn into, he’s a really nice, humble guy. I like him, he’s a really nice guy.”
Join the controversy; share your insight. Use the comment button on the underside left to have your say