Dana White Calls College NIL Money 'A Problem'

Dana White says the current wave of name, image and likeness money flowing to college athletes is "a problem," a stance he aired during a recent appearance on the Barstool Sports podcast Spinnin Backfist.

The UFC CEO and president used the sitdown to weigh in on the state of college sports compensation, pushing back on how NIL deals have reshaped amateur athletics. White has long been outspoken about how fighters and athletes get paid, and his shot at college NIL money fits a pattern of him staking out strong positions on compensation debates outside the UFC's own cage, not just inside it.

What Else Did Dana White Talk About On Spinnin Backfist?

White used the same appearance to promote his plans for a Power Slap event on the campus of Texas Tech, calling it a good fit alongside college football. White has been pushing Power Slap, the slap-fighting promotion he owns, onto new stages and audiences, and a campus show would be a departure from the arena and casino settings the league has mostly used. He framed the Texas Tech date as a way to build energy around Power Slap in a college football atmosphere.

Nothing here moves a betting line since neither the NIL comments nor the Power Slap plans involve a scheduled fight. But it is another sign White wants to expand Power Slap's footprint beyond its usual venues, worth watching once the promotion locks in an actual Texas Tech date and card.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Dana White say about NIL money for college athletes?

Dana White said the current name, image and likeness money going to college athletes is 'a problem,' comments he made during an appearance on the podcast Spinnin Backfist.

Is Dana White bringing a Power Slap event to Texas Tech?

Dana White discussed plans to hold a Power Slap event on the campus of Texas Tech, saying he believes it would pair well with the college football atmosphere there.