SouthernWorldwide.com – Dana White, a prominent political figure whose support was crucial for President Donald Trump’s 2024 victory, is now hinting at a potential return to presidential politics in 2028. This speculation arises from his statement that he has “become really close” with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
This development coincides with the UFC’s announcement of a unique “sports diplomacy” partnership with the State Department this week. White and Rubio formalized this collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding last month, as confirmed by a UFC statement. The agreement designates UFC athletes and coaches as “sports ambassadors” for young athletes worldwide, operating under the State Department’s Sports Envoy Program.
During an interview with Tomi Lahren of OutKick, White was directly asked about potential leaders he is considering for 2028. He responded by recounting a conversation he had during media appearances leading up to a White House event. He mentioned that many left-leaning media outlets questioned if he would exit politics after the current term. In response, he stated, “I’ve become really close to Rubio. We’ve become really close.”
White further emphasized his evolving political outlook, stating, “People are asking me if I’m going to get out of politics when the president leaves and I just said, ‘I’ve become very close to Rubio.’ He and I have become friends.”
He expressed a strong positive sentiment towards Rubio, describing him as “a great guy, I like him,” and noting his intelligence and composed demeanor. White also shared that he has met Rubio’s sons and likes them, concluding with a philosophical “never say never” regarding future political involvement.
When pressed on whether Rubio is his official choice to succeed Trump as president, White clarified his position. “I’m not saying I’m picking,” he stated. He also acknowledged Vice President JD Vance, who, alongside Rubio, is frequently mentioned as a leading contender for the 2028 presidential race. White described Vance as “a great guy too,” adding that the situation is complex and he lacks sufficient political knowledge to comment definitively. However, he conceded that having “two strong candidates” is not a negative.
Rubio and Vance are widely considered the two most likely Republican successors to Trump. Rubio, who ran for president in 2016, has publicly supported Vance, referring to him as a “close friend” and a potential “great nominee if he decides he wants to do that.”
While White has not issued an explicit endorsement for Rubio, his new partnership with the State Department through the UFC signifies the high regard he appears to hold for the Secretary of State.
This marks a significant first for the UFC, as it is the inaugural partnership of this nature with the State Department. The NFL is the only other major sports organization to have entered into a similar formal agreement with the department, which it did in January.
Lawrence Epstein, UFC Chief Operating Officer, expressed the league’s enthusiasm for the partnership. He highlighted its potential to facilitate collaboration between the State Department and UFC in “building bridges through community engagement.”
Epstein added, “We’re excited to join this program, led by Secretary Rubio, as UFC is a truly global organization with athletes representing 75 countries. We can’t wait to get started later this year.”
In his remarks, Rubio spoke highly of the UFC, recognizing its transformation into a global phenomenon by championing values such as excellence, discipline, opportunity, and meritocracy, which extend beyond the confines of the Octagon.
The Secretary of State conveyed the State Department’s pride in launching this sports diplomacy initiative with the UFC and its commitment to “continue growing the sport of MMA.”
