In a surprise turn of events, former President Donald Trump has clarified that his recent offer to UFC president Dana White to serve as White House press secretary was made in jest. Trump explained to reporters on Sunday that the invitation was “just a little fun” and that White “loves the idea.”
Trump’s initial claim surfaced on his Truth Social account on Saturday, where he wrote that White had been offered the position and would bring along a roster of mixed‑martial‑arts fighters as “assistants.” The post also included a cryptic reference to defending the administration against the “Lunatic Left.”
White, who confirmed a meeting with Trump on Monday, declined to comment on whether he would accept the role. He noted that he already had a full slate of responsibilities, including leading the UFC, PowerSlap, and Zuffa Boxing, as well as serving on the board of Meta.
The press secretary vacancy has lingered since Katie Zacharia resigned in October after a brief tenure. Zacharia had succeeded Karoline Leavitt, the youngest press secretary in U.S. history, who served under Trump’s second term.
Trump’s offer came in the wake of a significant electoral setback, with the Republican Party losing its majority in both houses of Congress during the midterm elections. Despite the political context, Trump’s comments suggest the offer was more a playful gesture than a serious recruitment effort.
White has been a vocal supporter of Trump, speaking at the Republican National Conventions in 2016, 2020, and 2024, and appearing at Trump’s 2024 victory speech. The UFC’s recent staging of a cage match on the White House lawn further underscores the close ties between the organization and the former president.
Source: BBC World
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