Kash Patel, the freshly appointed FBI director, is keen on ramping up the training his agents get, and he’s considering teaming up with the UFC to do just that.
On Wednesday, during a teleconference with the chiefs of all 55 FBI field offices nationwide, Patel pitched the idea of supplementing the agency’s martial arts training with expertise from UFC fighters and coaches. The buzz is that he’s also thinking about letting the UFC help develop fitness routines for the FBI agents, aiming to elevate their physical preparedness.
Rich Frankel, who used to be in charge of the FBI’s Newark office in New Jersey, shared with ABC News, “If they’re aiming to boost physical fitness, the UFC’s approach is quite specialized.”
The UFC’s connection to the current administration is no secret, largely due to the close bond between UFC CEO Dana White and President Donald Trump. In fact, White actively supported Trump’s re-election campaign and even made an appearance to celebrate his victory last November.
Just a few days following his win, Trump was spotted ringside at UFC 309 in New York City. He watched the matches with his family, Elon Musk, and Kid Rock. Over the past few years, Trump has frequently attended UFC events and never shies away from commending the athletes when asked about his presence.
While an official collaboration between the FBI and the UFC would be groundbreaking, many MMA fighters and trainers have previously partnered with law enforcement.
For instance, Greg Jackson, who coaches UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones, has provided self-defense training to police officers in New Mexico and has even collaborated with SWAT teams to teach them how to handle suspects during raids.
John McCarthy, perhaps the most renowned referee in MMA history, has also lent his expertise as a tactics and self-defense instructor for the Los Angeles Police Department.
Though Patel has floated the idea of collaborating with the UFC, it’s still unclear how soon he might move to set up such a partnership or training program. Having just been confirmed in his role, he seems to be in the early stages of considering these potential enhancements for the FBI.
