Dana White has been the driving force behind the UFC’s meteoric rise from a struggling promotion to the global powerhouse of mixed martial arts. Taking over as president in 2001, White’s relentless ambition and sharp business acumen helped transform the UFC into a billion-dollar empire.

White’s no-nonsense leadership style and passion for the fight game have made him one of the most influential figures in combat sports. And so, the head honcho once again finds himself on an elite list among several other notable names for the year 2024. Well, what list is it? Let’s find out!

Dana White makes it to Variety 500 list for his contribution to MMA

As CEO of the UFC, Dana White’s schedule is always packed, but this year has been even more demanding with the UFC and WWE turning into sister promotions under the consolidated banner of TKO. Additionally, White stayed focused on expanding the UFC’s global footprint, pushing for growth in international markets. The promotion made its debut in Saudi Arabia, aiming to strengthen the sport’s presence in the Middle East. And in September, the MMA juggernaut broke new ground by hosting the first-ever live sports event at ‘The Sphere’ in Las Vegas.

UFC 306 shattered records, drawing a sold-out crowd of 16,024 and generating a $22 million gate – the highest in UFC history and the largest for any single event at ‘The Sphere’. The UFC also continues to thrive with major sponsorships, landing its biggest deal yet in October 2023 by partnering with Anheuser-Busch, making the brand the ‘Official Global Beer of UFC.’ For the unversed, the deal is reported to be worth nearly $100 million over six years.

All these special achievements have pushed White into the Variety 500 list once again. Jed I. Goodman took to his X account to share the news with the fans. He tweeted, “A few names that made Variety500, “an index of the 500 most influential business leaders shaping the global media industry.” The list featured some other prominent names like Nick Khan, Ariel Emanuel, and Dwayne Johnson. Tim Cook, Mark Cuban, and one of White’s longtime associates Joe Rogan have also been part of this prestigious list in the past.

The 55-year-old UFC head has led the UFC’s growth from humble beginnings. When he took over in 2001, the promotion was on the verge of collapsing, with PPV events no longer being viable and not being featured on any major networks. Additionally, UFC 23 to UFC 29 didn’t even witness a DVD or Home video release, owing to the SEG’s impending bankruptcy. After Zuffa’s takeover, White transformed the UFC into a global powerhouse. However, the MMA juggernaut is not the only venture he has invested in which has made him a force to reckon with in the world of business.

Dana White and the businesses he owns outside the UFC

Dana White has always had a straightforward answer when asked about the key to his success. He once said, “I’m a guy who did exactly what he wanted to do. When you do that, the money follows.” Thanks to his vision, the UFC has grown into a company worth over $12 billion. It’s hard to believe that the same man, once in debt to a mob boss, would go on to build such a massive empire in combat sports. But UFC isn’t the only thing White has poured his energy into – his interests and investments reach far beyond the Octagon.

About 1 year ago, White appeared on the Rock Sugar Magic podcast where he revealed how far he’s stretched his wings. He said, “So over the last couple of years, I have dove into many businesses. I own a company called Throw One with the Fertitta brothers. We hold Ridiculousness, which is on MTV. We own Nitro Circus, we own SLS Skate League, and Travis Pastors Nitro Cross. I love brand building, and we are having a blast with that. We are about to get a residency here in Vegas at the Paris with Nitro Circus.”

White’s journey from working as a boxing trainer to becoming one of the biggest names in combat sports is nothing short of remarkable. But he’s far from slowing down. Recently, White has indicated to try his hands in the field of boxing to achieve the same success as the UFC. Do you think the UFC head honcho can replicate his success in other fields? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.