Dana White Calls PFL’s Harrison Promo “Desperate”
UFC CEO Dana White didn’t mince words when addressing the Professional Fighters League’s (PFL) recent promotional video featuring Kayla Harrison. The video, released prior to UFC 307, highlighted Harrison’s 2022 loss to Larissa Pacheco in the PFL.
White’s response to the promo was scathing. He characterized the move as a sign of desperation from a promotion that, in his view, is struggling financially. I think when you’re losing as much money as they are, f*cking go for it,” White stated during the UFC 307 post-fight press conference.
The UFC boss didn’t stop there. He went on to criticize PFL’s business acumen, particularly referencing a recent statement by PFL chairman Donn Davis about outspending the Sphere in Las Vegas. White questioned the logic behind such a move, asking rhetorically, “How many tickets are you going to sell?”
White’s critique extended beyond the promo and into the overall operations of the PFL. He described the promotion as “drowning” and “not very bright,” suggesting that their marketing strategies are misguided attempts to gain traction in the competitive MMA landscape.
The controversy stems from Harrison’s recent transition from PFL to UFC. Since joining the UFC, Harrison has secured two consecutive victories, including a unanimous decision win over Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307. White praised Harrison’s performance and personality growth since joining the UFC, attributing it to the higher level of competition and exposure.
It’s just another level when you get here,” White explained, contrasting the UFC environment with what he perceives as lesser promotions like PFL and Bellator.
Looking ahead, White expressed enthusiasm for a potential matchup between Harrison and newly crowned bantamweight champion Julianna Peña, who claimed the title at UFC 307. He described both fighters as “dogs,” setting the stage for what could be an exciting future bout.
This incident highlights the ongoing rivalry between UFC and other MMA promotions, particularly as they compete for talent and market share. White’s comments underscore the UFC’s dominant position in the industry and his confidence in the promotion’s ability to develop and showcase top-tier talent.
As the MMA landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that the competition between promotions extends beyond the octagon and into the realm of marketing and public relations. With the UFC maintaining its position as the premier MMA organization, other promotions like PFL may need to rethink their strategies to effectively compete in this highly competitive space.
Citations:
[1] https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/10/ufc-307-dana-white-trashes-donn-davis-pfl-kayla-harrison-promo-drowning
[2] https://www.bjpenn.com/mma-news/dana-white/dana-white-reacts-to-the-atrocious-judging-at-ufc-307/
[3] https://www.mmaweekly.com/news/dana-white-torches-pfl-for-kayla-harrison-disrespect-theyre-drowning-they-suck
