It may be the most popular sport in the world with an estimated 3.5 billion fans globally, but UFC president Dana White isn't a fan of football. In fact, he "can't stand" the beautiful game.
White, who has played an instrumental role in building the UFC into a global attraction worth a reported $12.3 billion, has been vocal about his feelings towards the sport.
Speaking on a podcast, the 55-year-old didn't hold back. "I can’t stand soccer," he said. "I think that it’s the least talented sport on earth. There’s a reason three year olds can play soccer ok? You run around and kick a ball."
White, who was intent on dismissing football in his argument, was then interrupted by someone suggesting he wouldn't repeat the opinion in South America.
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"You wouldn’t say that if you were in Brazil, dude I’d say this in any country ever," he replied. "When you’re playing a game where the net is this big right, and the score is 3-1, are you s***ing me right now?"
White added: "Do you know how untalented you have to be to score three points when the net is this big?"
The UFC president explained why he wasn't a fan of hockey, either, but said he respected how talented you have to be to play hockey.
As you can imagine, White's comments brought plenty of discussion amongst fans.
One fan wrote: "There’s a reason it’s the most viewed sport in the world. Best sport of all time," and a second commented: "Ngl he kinda got a point but soccer ain’t easy."
A third said: "And it's physically the most demanding team sport in the world. On a field that is 120 x 80 yards size, with no ad breaks, with two 45 minute constant play time."
A fourth wrote: "Hitting a baseball still the hardest thing but endurance in soccer is unmatched," while a fifth added: "He hates it because he doesn’t understand it."
Do you agree with White? Is football the least talented sport on earth? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Dana White, UFC, MMA, Football
Jack Kenmare