Dana White, the influential figure in the UFC, has always had a complex relationship with boxing. His stance on the sport and its associated practices has often sparked discussions and debates. One such instance was witnessed after the UFC 309 post-fight presser.
The Subliminal Targeting
White's remarks during the presser seemed to subtly target Jake Paul, a popular YouTuber-turned-boxer. Since Paul's promotions gained momentum, there has been a rift between them. White emphasized the efficiency and straightforwardness of UFC fights compared to the post-fight discussions and podcasts in boxing. "Think about, again, last night, boxing," he said. "These guys will do a fight then have a (expletive) podcast for an hour and 30 minutes before the next (expletive) fight comes on, right? We’re gonna do a rain delay? It’s never gonna happen, man. You know what we do? We go boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, and all the fight (expletive) roll all night. All the (expletive) talk is done."The Tyson-Paul Fight
Jake Paul, at the age of 27, achieved a significant victory by defeating "Iron Mike" Tyson, who was 58 years old. The fight took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with eight two-minute rounds filled with intense jabs. Tyson, who was reported to have made $20 million from the fight while Paul made $40 million, did not perform as expected. He struggled with his footwork, timing, balance, and the ability to close the distance. However, Paul overcame a series of physical ailments to make the fight, which was initially scheduled for July 20 but was pushed back to November 15 due to Tyson's illness on an airplane in May.The Impact on Boxing
This fight between Paul and Tyson has had a significant impact on the boxing world. It has brought a new generation of fans and attention to the sport through Paul's social media presence. It also raises questions about the future of boxing and its traditional ways. While some may view Paul's success as a disruption to the established order, others see it as a sign of the changing times. The fight has sparked conversations about the need for innovation and adaptation in boxing to keep up with the modern era.The Future of White and Boxing
Dana White's stance on boxing and his interactions with figures like Jake Paul will continue to shape the future of the sport. His influence extends beyond the UFC, and his words and actions have the potential to either propel boxing forward or keep it stuck in its traditional ways. As the boxing world evolves, it will be interesting to see how White's perspective and actions play a role in shaping its trajectory.