Helwani Blasts White As Worst Press Secretary Pick

Dana White lacks the qualifications to serve as White House Press Secretary, veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani argued this week.

Helwani weighed in on his podcast after President Donald Trump posted a weekend announcement tapping the UFC CEO for the government role. Trump walked back the nomination days later, calling it a gag, though White's initial reaction at a press conference suggested he took the offer seriously. Helwani questioned which man was telling the truth, noting the conflicting accounts between White's public remarks and Trump's subsequent denial, per BJPenn.com.

Why White Would Fail In Government Role

The journalist pointed to White's track record with critical reporters as disqualifying. "This is a guy who talks about free speech, but when someone asks him a bad question, he tries to get rid of them forever," Helwani said. White's intolerance for tough questions would undermine the demands of a position requiring daily briefings on wars, economic policy, and international crises rather than sports storylines.

Helwani dismissed the likelihood of a wealthy fight promoter standing behind a White House podium fielding questions on tariffs and ceasefires. The press secretary post sits empty for now, fueling continued speculation about the vacancy.

Trump and White have stayed close for years, with the president turning up ringside at marquee UFC cards. His attendance at UFC 334 in New York City this weekend has not been confirmed.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Dana White ‘worst candidate’ for Donald Trump’s press secretary per longtime MMA voice