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FBI Director Kash Patel made headlines with his presence at UFC 313 in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 8, 2025. Sharing photos of himself alongside UFC CEO Dana White, prominent MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz, and former Trump policy advisor Richard Grenell, Patel sparked widespread speculation about a potential partnership between the FBI and the UFC.
“Only thing better than coming home to Vegas… is fight night UFC313,” Patel posted on X (formerly Twitter), further fueling discussions.
During one of his initial conference calls after assuming office under the Trump administration, Patel had floated the idea of a collaboration with the UFC to train FBI agents in martial arts. His remarks have since gained traction, with many wondering if the proposal will materialize into an official agreement.
Dana White Confirms Kash Patel Is “Dead Serious” About the Plan
Following UFC 313, Dana White was asked about Patel’s comments regarding the possible FBI-UFC collaboration. While no official plans have been confirmed, White acknowledged the seriousness of the discussion.
“After he said that, my phone blew up. You know, everybody wants to be the trainers to the FBI now,” White said backstage. “But he’s dead serious about that. I talked to him about it tonight—yeah, he’s dead serious. So we’ll see how that starts to come together.”
Although the UFC has not publicly announced any formal steps toward a partnership, a spokesperson previously told Newsweek:
“UFC President and CEO Dana White knows Director Patel, but we are not aware of any information regarding UFC and FBI training.”
Meanwhile, a former Justice Department official suggested the idea might be more about optics than practicality. Speaking to Reuters, the official remarked, “This is clearly motivated by the glitz and glamour show, and Trump’s friend,” referencing White’s longstanding relationship with the former president.
UFC Star Justin Gaethje Weighs In
UFC star Justin Gaethje also expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of training FBI agents, stating he would gladly contribute if given the opportunity.
“I would love to be part of any part of that. I love representing this country. I can’t wait to fly this flag, walk into the Octagon,” Gaethje told TMZ Sports.
He added, “It’s been a while since I’ve been proud to be an American, and we’re back there. I’m excited to represent this country. Anytime anybody at that position needs my help, I’m more than willing.”
The former interim lightweight champion even joked about being fully available for such an endeavor.
“I think there are more skilled people (than myself), but I got no kids, no wife. So if Patel needs somebody to go out there and serve some justice, I would love to be part of that team.”
What’s Next?
While Patel’s idea of an FBI-UFC collaboration remains in the early discussion phase, the growing interest from key figures in both organizations suggests it may gain momentum. As White put it, “We’ll see how that starts to come together.”
For now, it remains a developing story with no official confirmation. However, if the partnership does move forward, it could mark a unique intersection between law enforcement and professional combat sports.
