Dana White rejects White House 'cancel culture' against those celebrating Charlie Kirk’s death

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: UFC boss and Donald Trump supporter Dana White said he disagrees with conservatives and his allies in the White House who are calling for 'cancel culture' against liberals celebrating the death of Charlie Kirk.

He emphasized that he supports free speech, even if it is hate speech, and opposes cancel culture, referring to people losing their jobs for posting against Kirk.

Dana White defends free speech, rejects cancel culture amid Charlie Kirk controversy

When asked whether any of his fighters could say anything on social media, where “there've gotta be consequences,” White said, “I'm a big believer in free speech, and unfortunately probably the most important speech to protect is hate speech.”

When CBS reporter Jon Wertheim noted that White isn't a fan of cancel culture, he replied, “No. I hate it on both sides. It's like all the stuff that's goin' on with Charlie right now—you know, these people are goin' out and sayin' stuff. And, you know, you're seein' people gettin' fired or kicked out of school.”

While he maintained his contempt for those who celebrate Kirk’s death, he did not believe in ruining their lives. “I think you're a disgusting human being if you're celebrating the death of another human being, but people make mistakes, and people are gonna do dumb things.

I don't like trying to destroy people's lives over doing something dumb,” he said.  

Pam Bondi under fire for push to prosecute comments on Charlie Kirk

White has joined a growing number of conservatives opposing an aggressive campaign to track down and expose those posting against the slain conservative activist.

Insensitive comments about Kirk’s death have sparked a national debate on free speech, with Attorney General Pam Bondi facing criticism for saying she would prosecute such remarks.

Conservative commentator Raquel Debona warned that efforts to fire liberals run counter to conservative and Christian values.

Charlie Kirk and Dana White shared close bond before tragic death

On a podcast after Kirk’s death, Dana White recalled the shocking moment when he first heard the news. He was particularly struck by how the tragedy affected his children, who used to watch Kirk on social media.

Kirk and White had previously been seen together in August 2023 after the conservative commentator shared a photo of them side by side. In the caption, he wrote: “Dana White is based, and he's the best president of any sports league anywhere in the world. Honored he has our back.”