Khabib Nurmagomedov Praises Dana White's Impact on UFC

Khabib Nurmagomedov has expressed admiration for Dana White, attributing the UFC's rise to prominence in mixed martial arts to his former boss. Under White's leadership since 2001, the UFC transformed from a struggling organization into a major sports entity valued at $11.3 billion, recently securing a seven-year, $7.7 billion broadcasting deal with Paramount.

After retiring from the UFC in 2020, Nurmagomedov launched his own fight league and gained insight into the challenges of promoting. He believes White's ability to maintain a clear distinction between personal and business relationships has been crucial to the UFC's success. Nurmagomedov noted that White's decisions, while sometimes unpopular, have always prioritized the promotion's growth.

Nurmagomedov highlighted the UFC's established reputation over the past 30 years, asserting that many have attempted to replicate its success but few have succeeded. He emphasized that White's promotional genius has played a significant role in the UFC's achievements, including its recent milestones with Paramount.