Dana White has never been afraid to make bold statements. The UFC president once again grabbed attention after comparing two of MMA's biggest stars to legends from other sports. White said Conor McGregor is similar to Muhammad Ali because of his worldwide fame and ability to attract fans. He also described Jon Jones as the Michael Jordan of MMA because of his dominance inside the cage.
The comments quickly created debate among fans. However, White believes both fighters changed the sport in different ways. McGregor helped bring MMA into mainstream culture with his personality and knockout power. Jones, meanwhile, built a legacy through long-term success and championships across weight classes. White's comments came as excitement continues to build around McGregor's expected return and Jones' place among the greatest fighters in UFC history.
Dana White praises Conor McGregor's fame and Jon Jones' dominance
Dana White explained that Conor McGregor became one of the biggest stars combat sports has ever seen. According to him, the Irish fighter had the same kind of impact on MMA that Ali had on boxing. White pointed to McGregor's ability to sell fights, create headlines, and bring new viewers to the sport. Even people who did not follow MMA knew who McGregor was during the peak of his career.
White also spoke highly of Jon Jones and his long unbeaten run in the UFC. He said Jones represents greatness in MMA the same way Michael Jordan represented greatness in basketball. White noted that Jones has spent many years at the top level while defeating every major opponent placed in front of him. He also highlighted Jones' success in multiple weight divisions and his ability to continue winning deep into his career.
The UFC boss suggested that both fighters changed MMA in their own way. McGregor brought unmatched popularity and entertainment value, while Jones built one of the strongest competitive records in the history of the sport.
Attention is now turning toward McGregor's next challenge. The former two-division champion will face Max Holloway at UFC 329. Their first fight happened in 2013 when McGregor defeated a young Holloway by decision. Since then, Holloway has developed into one of the most respected fighters in the UFC and a former featherweight champion.
Unlike their first meeting, this fight is expected to be far more competitive. Holloway now enters the matchup with years of experience and championship success behind him.
