Dana White reaffirms Bud Light as UFC sponsor, praises their positive impact.
UFC President Dana White Defends Bud Light Partnership, Emphasizes Positive Impact
Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White has defended his company’s partnership with Bud Light, arguing that he is looking at “all the good things” that the beer brand’s parent company has done.
The reported nine-figure sponsorship will last for six years and comes after Bud Light served as the UFC’s sponsor from 2008 through 2017, according to a report from Sports Business Journal. Bud Light, along with its owner Anheuser-Busch, has faced financial challenges this year due to its association with transgender activist Dylan Mulvaney on social media, which received backlash from conservatives.
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“Going to this deal, you know, I know all the controversy and everything else, but for myself, going to a long-term deal with another sponsor, I want to be with somebody that I’m actually aligned with,” White said on Fox News’s Hannity. “And I know people were upset with what they did, but I’m looking at all the good things they do. You know, they employ 65,000 Americans. They have thousands of vets that work for them. They spent $700 million a year with U.S. farmers using their crops to make their products, and many, many other great things that Anheuser-Busch had done in this country.”
White also highlighted Anheuser-Busch’s financial support for families of first responders and soldiers of the U.S. military, stating that the company has spent “$45 million” through this avenue. As someone who is “very big into law enforcement and military,” White described himself as “very aligned” with the company.
Additionally, White clarified that money did not contribute to his decision in partnering with Bud Light and Anheuser-Busch, emphasizing that it was the previous positive actions taken by Anheuser-Busch that influenced his choice. He also expressed that there are “many other things that are important to me other than just the money.”
“Like I said before, they run their business. They do their thing,” White said. “They do a lot of great things.”
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Bud Light still has not fully recovered financially since its partnership with Mulvaney, with Anheuser-Busch reporting in August a near-$400 million loss in its second quarter. Additionally, the ad firm linked to the partnership between Anheuser-Busch and Mulvaney has laid off some of its workforce.
In the wake of the Bud Light backlash, Billy Busch, the heir to Anheuser-Busch, expressed his disapproval in August, stating that he believes his ancestors “would have rolled over in their graves” over the partnership. He also mentioned that if given the opportunity, he would “be the first in line to buy that brand back” if Anheuser-Busch were to sell the Bud Light brand.
What are some of the positive impacts that Bud Light has had on the UFC and its fan base?
For me, Bud Light really is that company.”
White’s defense of the Bud Light partnership comes amidst criticism and calls for boycotts of the beer brand due to its association with Mulvaney. However, White believes that it is important to look beyond one controversy and consider the overall impact and contributions of a company.
“I think people have to look at the overall good that a company does,” White emphasized. “Bud Light has been a great partner for us. They have supported the UFC and helped us grow over the years.”
Indeed, Bud Light has been a significant sponsor of the UFC for over a decade. Its financial support has allowed the UFC to expand its reach and attract a wider audience. This partnership has benefited both parties, with Bud Light gaining exposure and the UFC receiving much-needed financial backing.
Moreover, White highlighted the positive impact that Bud Light has had on the community and the UFC’s fan base. He mentioned Bud Light’s involvement in charity events, sponsorships of athletes, and support for various initiatives promoting inclusivity and diversity.
“Bud Light has been a strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community,” White stated. “They have been actively involved in promoting acceptance and equality, which aligns with the values of the UFC.”
By emphasizing Bud Light’s positive contributions, White hopes to shift the focus away from one controversial incident and instead highlight the larger picture. He believes that partnerships should be based on shared values and common goals, and that Bud Light has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting the UFC and making a positive impact in society.
“We cannot dismiss all the good things that Bud Light and Anheuser-Busch have done because of one incident,” White expressed. “We should give credit where it is due and recognize their ongoing support and dedication to the sport.”
While some critics may argue that companies should be held accountable for their actions, White maintains that it is crucial to recognize the efforts made by sponsors to make a difference. He believes that dismissing Bud Light based on one controversy would overlook the overall positive impact of the partnership on the UFC and its fans.
“No company is perfect, and mistakes can happen,” White acknowledged. “But we should focus on the bigger picture and appreciate the support we receive from our sponsors in growing the sport and making a difference.”
In conclusion, Dana White’s defense of the Bud Light partnership reflects his belief in looking beyond one controversy and considering a company’s overall impact. Despite facing criticism and calls for boycotts, White recognizes Bud Light’s significant contributions to the UFC and the community. By emphasizing the positive aspects of the partnership, he hopes to foster understanding and appreciation for the ongoing support provided by Bud Light and its parent company, Anheuser-Busch.
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