It seems the FBI might be gearing up to add some mixed martial arts (MMA) skills to their training repertoire sooner than expected.
In a recent conference call involving the leaders of all 55 field offices across the nation, the newly appointed FBI director, Kash Patel, proposed an intriguing idea. He suggested collaborating with the UFC to enhance agents’ physical fitness and martial arts skills. While reactions were mixed, Patel showed his commitment by attending UFC 313 on Saturday, where he discussed the potential partnership with Dana White.
“Once he mentioned that, my phone just blew up,” White shared during the UFC 313 post-fight press conference. “Everyone is eager to become the FBI’s trainers.”
White continued, “But he’s completely committed to this idea. I spoke with him tonight, and he’s very serious. We’ll see how this unfolds.”
Patel, who calls Las Vegas home, has developed quite a liking for the UFC in recent years. His connection with White strengthened during President Donald Trump’s 2024 re-election campaign.
Trump himself has long been a supporter of the UFC, and he even made an appearance at an event in New York City last November, shortly after his successful re-election. White has backed Trump for several years, including speaking at the Republican National Conventions and advocating for him during the 2024 campaign.
On election night, White even addressed the crowd after Trump secured his second term.
The possibility of the FBI forming a formal alliance with the UFC doesn’t come as a surprise, especially considering that numerous MMA coaches and trainers already collaborate with law enforcement agencies regularly.
Renowned coaches like Greg Jackson have been offering martial arts courses to local police departments for years, and many former fighters have transitioned into law enforcement careers after retiring.
It now seems that FBI agents might soon get a firsthand experience in MMA. With White confirming Patel’s serious intent to foster this relationship, a training program may be on the horizon.
