Trump Says He Was ‘Just Kidding’ About Making UFC Boss Dana White His Press Secretary

United States President Donald Trump has said he was only joking when he announced that he had offered Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) president Dana White the position of White House press secretary, reversing an announcement that had sparked widespread speculation.

Trump made the clarification on Sunday, November 8, while speaking to reporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, before departing for Washington.

The president said his announcement on social media a day earlier was intended as a joke, although he suggested that White was interested in the possibility of taking the position.

“I was kidding, but I think Dana likes the idea, and he is a very capable guy,” Trump told reporters, describing the announcement as “just a little fun.”

Trump had announced the proposed appointment in a post on his Truth Social platform on Saturday, asking White to accept the position.

In the post, he described the UFC boss as a “violent Fighter and Warrior” and suggested that several prominent UFC fighters could serve as his assistants.

The president also shared photographs of well-known fighters, including former champions, as part of the announcement. He later explained that their proposed involvement was another indication that he was not being serious about the appointment.

White, who has maintained a close relationship with Trump for more than two decades, appeared to entertain the possibility after sharing an image of himself standing behind the White House press briefing lectern with the caption, “On to the next chapter.”

He was expected to meet Trump at the White House on Monday, although the president said the meeting would concern other matters.

The episode comes amid uncertainty surrounding the White House communications team following a series of personnel changes.

Trump recently replaced his chief of staff, Susie Wiles, with Stephen Miller following the Republican Party’s heavy losses in the November 3 midterm elections.

The White House press secretary position has also remained vacant following the departure of Katie Zacharia, who left the role after just five days.

Trump’s suggestion that White could become the administration’s chief spokesperson attracted attention because of the UFC executive’s limited experience in government communications and his close political association with the president.

White has been one of Trump’s prominent supporters and has spoken at Republican National Convention events. He also played a role in mobilising support for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.

The pair’s relationship dates back to the early 2000s, when Trump’s former Atlantic City casino hosted UFC events. Their association has continued through political appearances and sporting events, including a UFC event held on the White House grounds in June 2026.

Trump’s comments have now effectively ruled out White’s appointment, although the president indicated that he remained supportive of his longtime friend.

The development leaves the White House press secretary position without a confirmed permanent replacement as the administration prepares for increased scrutiny from Democrats following their midterm election victories.