UFC Chief Executive Officer Dana White and controversial boxing personality Jake Paul shared an uncomfortable direct interaction at the CFP National Championship contest.
UFC head Dana White and the combat sports figure/internet personality Jake Paul have maintained a contentious relationship for several years.
White, the long-standing leader of the UFC, has frequently been the subject of Paul’s online provocations. Paul often voices criticism regarding White and the financial practices of the UFC, specifically targeting the compensation fighters receive for their participation.
Most recently, White derided Paul’s recent boxing match performance against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. Paul experienced his second professional loss in the boxing ring, marking his inaugural defeat by knockout or technical knockout.
White stated that all individuals involved in the event should feel a sense of ’shame’ after witnessing Joshua defeat Paul in their bout. Just a few months prior, White fiercely criticized Paul and his ‘sorcerer-like’ manager for initiating lawsuits against those who criticized his boxing career.
Dana White and Jake Paul experience an awkward encounter following White’s ridicule of Paul’s loss to Anthony Joshua
Despite their significant differences, White and Paul have found themselves in proximity on numerous occasions, including at UFC events. The two prominent combat sports figures were present at the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, featuring Miami and Indiana, on Monday evening.
Only days after White’s disparaging comments, he and Paul had an uncomfortable moment within a private suite.
Observe White and Paul’s face-to-face meeting below at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with U.S. President Donald Trump positioned between them.
Dana White and Jake Paul were face to face last night after years of beef 👀😳 pic.twitter.com/qXi4kFSXA1
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) January 21, 2026
White has maintained a busy schedule since the start of the new year. The UFC is scheduled to resume its event calendar this Saturday in Las Vegas with UFC 324.
Regarding Paul’s future, he has hinted at an extended break from fighting while he plans his next steps. In the interim, it appears the dynamic between White and Paul remains as strained as ever.
