UFC Leadership Addresses Allegations
UFC CEO Dana White and veteran commentator Daniel Cormier have publicly pushed back against claims made by two-division champion Alex Pereira regarding the promotion’s booking process. Pereira recently suggested that the UFC utilized influencers, including Cormier, to manufacture a narrative that favored a matchup between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit at UFC 334, effectively sidelining his own aspirations for a title bout in a third division.
Dana White Denies Manipulation
Speaking at a Contender Series post-fight press conference, Dana White dismissed the notion of organizational interference in media commentary. “Of course that’s not true. These guys are the most paranoid people on the planet,” White stated. He emphasized that the UFC does not dictate the opinions of its broadcast team, noting that he does not instruct commentators like Joe Rogan or Daniel Cormier on what to say about fighters.
White further argued that the sport’s narrative develops organically, adding, “When the fights are called, whatever they say when they walk out here, interview with you guys, we don’t police any of that stuff.”
Daniel Cormier Responds to Misunderstanding
Daniel Cormier, who reportedly discussed the matter with Pereira in person, also addressed the allegations on his YouTube channel. Cormier denied receiving any instructions from the UFC to promote the Gane vs. Hokit fight. “I was not told by the UFC to promote this as the fight to happen,” Cormier stated.
Cormier expressed confusion regarding the accusations, suggesting that the situation may stem from a miscommunication or a language barrier. He maintained that he remains an advocate for Pereira, describing the champion as a “buddy” and stating that his support for the fighter remains unchanged despite the public disagreement.
While Pereira remains focused on his next steps, he is currently scheduled to face a significant challenge at UFC 335 against one of the heavyweight division’s most prominent strikers.