Dana White slammed for 'tone deaf' post after death of UFC fighter

UFC president Dana White has been criticised over an Instagram story he posted just hours after Allan Nascimento's death was announced.

On Monday, Nascimento was found unresponsive after suffering an apparent heart attack in his sleep, according to the UFC, MMA's leading promotion.

A statement from the UFC read: "Despite the efforts of the responding medical team, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

It added: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Allan's family, friends, team-mates and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Nascimento, who had been with the UFC since 2021, last fought in a split-decision loss to Mitch Raposo in Las Vegas in June.

The 34-year-old boasted a career record of 22 wins and seven losses, with 16 of those victories coming by way of submission.

Tributes poured in for Nascimento, including from former UFC lightweight champion and training partner Charles Oliveira, who wrote: "Today I lost a brother that the fight game gave me".

He added: "Thank you for always being by my side, for sharing the mats and the corner. I have nothing but gratitude for having you with me – in training, in the corner, and just hanging out. I love you, man; you're a legend."

Dana White, meanwhile, reshared the UFC's statement confirming Allan Nascimento's death to his Instagram story.

Just two hours later, the UFC president would post a picture of himself smoking a cigar alongside the caption: "Great day", a decision that has come under criticism.

One fan commented: "Posting this s*** back to back might be the dumbest s*** I’ve ever seen in my life man," while another commented: "Dana is so tone deaf its actually insane."

A third wrote: "No self awareness," and a fourth added: "One of his fighters died and he’s smoking a cigar talkin bout great day."

Dana White reposted the UFC's statement on his Instagram story. Image credit: Instagram/danawhite

White went on to post a picture of himself smoking a cigar. Image credit: Instagram/danawhite

Nascimento trained at Chute Boxe under coach Diego Lima in Brazil.

Taking to social media, Chute Boxe said their team had lost a "warrior, friend, dedicated competitor and extraordinary human being".

"[He] earned the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of knowing him," they said in a statement on Instagram.

"Allan inspired on and off the mats with his determination, humility, respect and fighting spirit.

"Your presence will be missed immeasurable, rest in peace Allan, your name, your story and your legacy will live forever through our star."