Dana White clarifies comments about Farid Basharat's UFC departure
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 25, 2026, 5:28 AM
Last updated Oct 25, 2026
Dana White, UFC CEO, stated his earlier comments regarding fighter contract decisions were not aimed at Farid Basharat, whose contract was not renewed. In a postfight press conference following UFC 333, White addressed Basharat’s concerns about being portrayed as difficult to work with or as having turned down fights. White expressed he never intended to harm Basharat's reputation and acknowledged he had seen Basharat's response on social media. He mentioned that the discussion about fighter releases was general and not specific to any individual. White also hinted at the possibility of Basharat returning to the UFC, though he indicated it wasn't imminent.
- •Dana White spoke after UFC 333 regarding fighter contracts.
- •He clarified remarks were not specifically about Farid Basharat.
- •Basharat disputed claims of being difficult to work with.
- •White mentioned concerns over Basharat's reputation were unintended.
- •White left open the possibility of Basharat's UFC return.
- 5:28 AMYahoo Sports — Dana White says he never meant to hurt Farid Basharat's reputation
- 5:28 AMSherdog — Dana White says he never meant to hurt Farid Basharat's reputation
"Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White said his earlier remarks about fighters leaving the promotion were not directed specifically at Farid Basharat, whose contract was not renewed.
"Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White said his earlier remarks about fighters leaving the promotion were not directed specifically at Farid Basharat, whose contract was not renewed.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsOct 25, 2026, 5:28 AMDana White says he never meant to hurt Farid Basharat's reputation
Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White said his earlier remarks about fighters leaving the promotion were not directed specifically at Farid Basharat, whose contract was not renewed.
- SherdogOct 25, 2026, 5:28 AMDana White says he never meant to hurt Farid Basharat's reputation
Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White said his earlier remarks about fighters leaving the promotion were not directed specifically at Farid Basharat, whose contract was not renewed.
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