This was surprising to hear.
President Donald Trump’s longtime friend and UFC President Dana White is fueling new speculation about the 2028 Republican presidential race after revealing he has developed a close relationship with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
White, one of Trump’s most loyal supporters during the 2024 campaign, said his growing friendship with Rubio has changed the way he views the future of Republican leadership. While he stopped short of endorsing anyone for president, his comments immediately sparked discussion about who could eventually lead the America First movement after Trump’s presidency.
Dana White Says He Has Become Close With Marco Rubio
Speaking during an interview with OutKick’s Tomi Lahren, White was asked whether he sees any rising Republican leaders who could compete for the White House in 2028.
White responded by revealing that he and Rubio have become close friends while working together on a new partnership between the UFC and the U.S. State Department.
He recalled being asked by reporters whether he planned to leave politics once Trump’s presidency comes to an end.
Instead, White said his relationship with Rubio has grown considerably.
“I’ve become really close to Rubio,” White said. “We’ve become friends.”
White Praises Rubio’s Leadership
White spoke highly of the secretary of state, describing him as intelligent, disciplined, and someone who carries himself professionally.
He also mentioned spending time with Rubio’s family and said he has a great deal of respect for him both personally and professionally.
“I like him,” White said. “He’s smart, and I like the way he handles himself.”
When asked directly whether Rubio is now his choice for president in 2028, White declined to make an official endorsement.
“I’m not saying I’m picking,” he explained.
JD Vance Remains In The Conversation
White also praised Vice President JD Vance, another Republican widely viewed as a potential presidential candidate after Trump.
Calling Vance “a great guy,” White said Republicans could be in a strong position if both men decide to seek the nomination.
“It’s not a bad thing to have two strong candidates,” he said.
Political observers continue to view Rubio and Vance as two of the GOP’s leading figures heading toward the next presidential election. Rubio has previously expressed support for Vance, describing him as a close friend and saying he would make a strong Republican nominee if he chooses to run.
UFC And State Department Announce Historic Partnership
White’s comments came as the UFC announced a first-ever partnership with the U.S. State Department focused on sports diplomacy.
Under the new agreement, UFC athletes and coaches will serve as Sports Envoys, helping promote leadership, teamwork, discipline, and opportunity through international programs aimed at young athletes around the world.
The partnership is the first of its kind for the UFC.
UFC Executive Welcomes The Agreement
UFC Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Epstein said the organization is excited to work alongside the State Department on the initiative.
With athletes representing approximately 75 countries, Epstein said the UFC is uniquely positioned to build relationships across cultures while expanding the sport of mixed martial arts worldwide.
He added that the program is expected to begin later this year.
Rubio Applauds UFC’s Global Success
Rubio also praised the UFC, calling it one of the world’s premier sports organizations.
According to Rubio, the UFC’s commitment to excellence, discipline, opportunity, and merit-based competition has helped it become a global success story.
He said the State Department is proud to partner with the organization as it works to strengthen international connections through sports.
The UFC joins the NFL as only the second major American sports organization to establish a formal sports diplomacy agreement with the State Department.
Although Dana White made it clear he is not endorsing anyone for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, his praise for Marco Rubio—and his continued support for JD Vance—is certain to keep both names at the center of conversations about the future of the Republican Party once President Trump completes his time in office.
