White defended Zuffa’s treatment of fighters after Jones questioned the company’s growing influence in boxing
Dana White pushed back Sunday night against recent criticism from Roy Jones Jr. regarding Zuffa Boxing’s growing role in the sport. White defended the company’s treatment of fighters during the post-fight press conference following Zuffa Boxing 6 in Las Vegas.
White was asked directly about the comments following Zuffa Boxing 6 at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas.
“I don’t know whose ass you got to kiss around here to get fights,” White said at the post-fight press conference on Sunday night. “Probably got to be Ish or Harrison or somebody.”
White said he respected Jones but disagreed with the idea that fighters are being mistreated or politically controlled under the Zuffa structure.
“I think that if you asked any of the fighters, they would tell you that we treat them very well, treat them like professional athletes.”
White also pointed toward the company’s relationships with fighters and managers as evidence that the promotion’s approach has been different from traditional boxing systems.
“Any of the interactions that I’ve had through Ish and Harrison has been nothing but respectful.”
Jones’ criticism came during a recent interview in which he questioned whether Zuffa’s long-term influence could alter how boxing historically operates. White suggested resistance from some established boxing figures was inevitable as the promotion continues expanding.
“Everybody’s entitled to their opinions,” White said. “I’m sure when you come into a business and you start to cause disruption, you’re going to ruffle some feathers. It’s going to happen.”
Zuffa Boxing has spent the last several months building cards around younger prospects and undefeated fighters facing one another earlier than is traditionally common in boxing. White has repeatedly said the promotion plans to continue expanding internationally while building toward larger events in 2027.