Trump reveals Dana White press secretary offer was just a joke

US President Donald Trump has clarified that he was joking when he suggested Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) CEO Dana White could become the next White House press secretary, following a social media post that sparked widespread speculation about the unusual possibility.

Trump made the clarification on Sunday, saying his suggestion was never a serious proposal, despite describing White as someone who would be interested in taking the high-profile government position.

“I will tell you, I was only kidding,” Trump told reporters, explaining that his earlier post, which included photographs of prominent UFC fighters, was intended as a joke.

The president added that White “loves the idea” but insisted that he had not seriously considered appointing his longtime ally to the role.

The controversy began on Saturday when Trump shared a post suggesting that White should bring several current and former UFC champions to the White House as potential assistants.

In the post, Trump described White as a “violent Fighter and Warrior” and suggested that the fighters would be needed to “defend us against the Lunatic Left.”

The unusual proposal quickly attracted attention, particularly as it came amid growing political tensions in Washington and preparations by Democrats to take control of Congress.

Trump’s remarks also appeared to reflect his combative political messaging as his administration faces an increasingly challenging political environment.

White, who has led the UFC for more than two decades, is among Trump’s most prominent supporters outside traditional political circles. The two have maintained a close relationship over the years, with the UFC chief playing an active role in building support for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.

White has frequently appeared alongside Trump at political gatherings and public events, helping strengthen the president’s connection with sports fans and mixed martial arts audiences.

Their relationship has also extended beyond politics. White helped bring UFC events to the White House lawn this year, placing the organisation at the centre of an unusual sporting spectacle at the presidential residence.

Trump confirmed that White was expected to visit the White House on Monday but indicated that the meeting was arranged for other reasons rather than discussions about a possible government appointment.

Although the president dismissed the press secretary suggestion as a joke, the episode highlighted his close personal ties with influential figures in the sports and entertainment industries.

For now, White appears set to remain at the helm of the UFC rather than take on the demanding task of managing communications for the White House.