Demetrious Johnson Claims Dana White Once Declared Conor McGregor the True Pound-for-Pound King
Former UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson revealed a candid conversation with UFC President dana White where White allegedly favored Conor McGregor as the world’s top pound-for-pound fighter, despite McGregor having recently suffered a knockout loss. Johnson recounted the exchange during a recent interview, highlighting White’s reasoning centered on McGregor’s willingness too accept any fight.The revelation comes as johnson, widely considered one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, continues to advocate for increased fighter compensation and promotional opportunities. Johnson is currently preparing to promote his own $1 million grappling tournament,the Craig Jones Invitational,a venture he jokingly suggested makes him a better promoter than White. This tournament aims to provide considerable payouts for grappling competitors, a stark contrast to the often-criticized pay structure within the UFC.
According to Johnson, the conversation took place at a Snoop Dogg concert. While enjoying a Bud Light, White reportedly told Johnson, ”You’re not the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.” When Johnson asked who was, White responded, “Conor McGregor… You know why? As he would fight anybody.” Johnson expressed his disbelief, noting McGregor had “just got f– knocked out” at the time.
Johnson believes White’s assessment was a veiled attempt to persuade him to face T.J. Dillashaw, a then-champion in a higher weight class. Johnson responded by jokingly requesting a $1 million payday for the bout. Despite the circumstances, Johnson stated he “respect[s] the fact that he told me that in my face.”
The anecdote underscores the complex relationship between fighters and promoters,and the frequently enough-strategic considerations that influence public perception within the fight world. Johnson’s current promotional efforts with the Craig Jones Invitational are positioned as a direct response to perceived shortcomings in the UFC’s treatment of athletes, offering a possibly lucrative alternative for grappling specialists. The inaugural Craig Jones Invitational is scheduled for November 2024.
