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Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua had one of the most remarkable rookie seasons in NFL history back in 2023. However, UFC President and CEO Dana White wasn’t the least bit surprised by his meteoric rise.
Nacua's success seemed almost inevitable for White after all these years because of their long-winded association. Their bond resembles more of that of an uncle and a nephew, as they first met when Nacua played youth football with White's son in Las Vegas. From that, they built a solid foundation, which has been maintained on trust and respect for one another, which extended far beyond Nacua's early years of playing.
Puka Nacua and Dana White: A Youth Football Friendship
Before making headlines in the NFL, the young man named Nacua grew up in Las Vegas, tight with White's son, Dana Jr. In fact, their time playing together led to Nacua being a frequent visitor in White's house, where he became so comfortable that he called White "Uncle Dana." White opened up more recently about that relationship on "Games With Names" with Julian Edelman, recalling how the two knew each other while Nacua was growing up.
“My kids grew up with Puka. He grew up in our house,” White told Edelman. “Me and Lorenzo [Fertitta] used to fund a team called the ‘Little Cowboys,’ and he was on the ‘Little Cowboys’ with my kids and a bunch of other guys that are playing right now.”
White further expressed pride in seeing Nacua flourish at the highest level, highlighting the talent that emerged from their youth football team.
“There are a few kids from that team who went on to the NFL and some to good colleges. To see Puka doing what he’s doing now, it could not happen to a better human being. When you meet this kid, you will love him. He’s such a good kid.”
Record-Breaking Rookie Year With the Rams
Nacua did not waste any time making records in his debut NFL season in 2023. He created the new all-time single-season rookie record with 105 receptions matching 1,486 receiving yards. He had six touchdowns on an average of 14.2 yards per catch, earning a Pro Bowl at his first year.
White was one of the first to congratulate him after the record-breaking news about Nacua; he expressed it on social media.
"Congrats @AsapPuka for breaking the all-time rookie record for receptions and receiving yards! Better human could not happen to. We are all so happy for you and PROUD of you!!!!!," White posted.
Face Overcame All Obstacles in 2024
The second year brought many challenges to Nacua in 2024. He suffered from a knee injury that had been aggravating since training camp and worsened during Week 1. Therefore, he spent six weeks away from the pitch. He still managed to record during the regular season 79 receptions, 990 yards, and three touchdowns. Even in playoffs, he had a good run, managing to collect 11 receptions in two postseason games for 141 receiving yards.
The bond between White and Nacua, however, crosses the realms of football and UFC fame. They both had great respect for each other as was evident when Nacua was asked to name the most popular guy in his contact list - and he decided to FaceTime Dana White.
For White, seeing Nacua excelling in the world of the NFL has been a most fulfilling experience on account of his talent, but also the person he has become. The UFC boss continues to be one of Nacua's biggest fan supporters, celebrating each milestone in his incredible journey.
