In a highly unusual moment at the UFC London post-fight press conference on Saturday night, promotion president Dana White bizarrely requested an interpreter to translate a question from a British journalist. The incident occurred following the mixed martial arts organisation's latest event in England's capital, sparking widespread confusion and amusement among fans and observers.
The Viral Exchange with The Sun's Reporter
During the media session, The Sun's respected MMA correspondent Chisanga Malata posed a pertinent question regarding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Malata inquired whether the UFC has any plans to cancel or modify its upcoming scheduled events in Saudi Arabia or Abu Dhabi given the current geopolitical situation.
'Are you guys continuing to monitor the situation in the Middle East? Because obviously, we know you like to go to Saudi or Abu Dhabi in June or July, and then obviously the October show,' Malata asked directly. 'So are you guys monitoring that and potentially thinking of changing plans?'
White's Unexpected Response
Rather than answering immediately, White turned to his American interpreter who then repeated the question almost verbatim in English, creating a surreal moment that quickly went viral across social media platforms. After this unusual translation process, White eventually responded to Malata with a straightforward answer: 'No. As of right now, no.'
The 56-year-old UFC boss later explained the peculiar situation, admitting: 'I know it's f***ing weird that I need a translator when you speak English, but I can't hear, my hearing's so bad. And if you have a slight accent, I'm really screwed.' This revelation about his hearing difficulties provided context for what initially appeared to be an inexplicable request for translation between two English speakers.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The incident generated significant online discussion, with fans expressing both bafflement and amusement at White's need for an English-to-English translator. One social media user commented pointedly: 'If Dana White needs a translator from English into English he shouldn't be holding the press conferences.'
Another observer suggested: 'Dana hang it up bro… enjoy retirement or boxing, needing an english to english translator…' while a third joked about employment prospects: 'Man I really want to get a job as Dana White's English to English translator.'
MMA journalist Michael Morgan captured the moment on social media, writing: 'Can’t lie, Dana White needing a translator for the #UFCLondon post fight presser was hilarious to me. Great question from @Chisanga_Malata about the Middle East conflict though, he’s absolute best in the business.'
Broader Context and Implications
The exchange highlighted not only White's hearing challenges but also the UFC's continued international expansion plans amid complex global circumstances. The promotion has significantly increased its presence in the Middle East in recent years, with regular events in Abu Dhabi and growing engagement with Saudi Arabia as part of the region's substantial investment in combat sports.
White's firm response indicates the organisation's current intention to proceed with its scheduled Middle Eastern events despite regional tensions, though his unusual method of receiving the question will likely remain the most memorable aspect of this particular press conference interaction for many observers.
