Following the emergence of the shocking video of UFC president Dana White slapping his wife in a New Year’s Eve altercation, the California Legislative Women’s Caucus is demanding his resignation. The group expressed “deep concern” regarding not only White’s conduct but the UFC’s response in a letter posted online.
“In the days since the video was released, you have remained silent. Your continued silence speaks volumes. As you once wrote: ‘Silence and inaction are not an option.’
California Legislative Women’s Caucus Demands Dana White’s Immediate Resignation
We agree — and we are urging you to take immediate action. Like you, we are people who live by our values. We, too, are people of action. We are allies against violence, advocates for women, and we are parents like yourself. This is why it is clear to us: we are calling for the immediate removal of Mr. White as President of the UFC.”
White, in the past, claimed that “you don’t bounce back from putting your hands on a woman”, and the letter highlights the potential hypocrisy of the issue. While Dana White himself has addressed the video, as has his wife, the letter points out that White, if he faces no punishment, would be in no position to discipline UFC fighters committing acts of domestic violence. Considering the organization’s troubled history in dealing with athletes accused of domestic violence – Jon Jones’ Hall of Fame induction springs to mind – they may have a point.
“Mr. White is not only the external face of the UFC, he is the leader who sets the expectations for the athletes as well. He is the leader who has explained in years past that he stands firmly against domestic violence. If an athlete were to commit violence against their partner, Mr. White is the leader within UFC who will have to determine the consequence. The eyes of the world are on him and on Endeavor.
The head of a major sporting organization cannot claim to be for the safety of women while a video of him striking his wife continues to circulate online without a response from you. The hypocrisy is astounding. Enough is enough. It is time to remove Mr. White from his leadership role, to allow him and his partner to get the help they need while reminding the world of what Endeavor stands for and that violence against women is not a conduct that you condone.”
Should Dana White step down as UFC president? Let us know in the comments.
