The always-outspoken Dana White is singing a different tune these days. The UFC CEO hasn’t always seen eye-to-eye with WWE’s leadership. However, after Endeavor’s acquisition, White has embraced new opportunities. This came after Derrick Lewis’ recent WWE talks.
Following Derrick Lewis’ knockout over Rodrigo Nascimento, talk turned to Lewis’ WWE aspirations. White didn’t mince words about the fan-favorite heavyweight’s chances. He revealed that he liked ‘The Black Beast’ and would absolutely support this idea.
I would do anything for Derrick Lewis. I really like Derrick Lewis. Listen, some of the fighters who fight here have always dreamed about doing a WWE match, or whatever it is, and I don’t have a problem with that.
Dana White during the UFC St. Louis post-fight press conference
It’s a stark contrast from Dana White‘s prior disdain toward Vince McMahon. The two promotions were constantly butting heads in the past. White revealed that he didn’t have a problem with WWE even when McMahon was not very friendly toward him. Now, the prospect of UFC fighters appearing in WWE seemed much more likely. Recently, Michael Chandler was given screen time on WWE RAW to call out Conor McGregor.
Dana White says he’s okay with Derrick Lewis and fighters making WWE appearances:
I mean I didn’t have a problem with that when Vince was consistently fucking me for no reason and now that that’s not the case anymore I obviously would absolutely do it. pic.twitter.com/DiB1EwbBsg
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) May 12, 2024
Several stars have crossed between UFC and WWE over the years. Brock Lesnar memorably competed in both promotions simultaneously in 2016. Matt Riddle, CM Punk, and others also made the leap in either direction. Their mixed results underscore the vastly different skill sets required.
For Derrick Lewis, an intimidating 265-pounder, the success of transition will result in how the WWE books him. Lewis is known for having cheeky one-liners in the UFC. However, the ability to deliver promos is a necessary skill in the WWE. It remains to be seen whether Lewis will make the switch or not.
Derrick Lewis wants to ‘dibble dabble’ with the WWE
Derrick Lewis recently set his sights on a new side gig, professional wrestling with WWE. But MMA fans can breathe easily, as ‘The Black Beast’ has no plans to hang up his UFC gloves anytime soon. This announcement came at the post-fight press conference.
Derrick Lewis wants to have a WWE side gig (via MMA Mania)This announcement came following his knockout victory over Rodrigo Nascimento at UFC St. Louis. Lewis made his intentions clear that he yearned for some wrestling action. He, however, firmly stated that his UFC fighting career remains the priority.
I wouldn’t stop here at UFC, but I would like to dibble dabble in WWE.
Derrick Lewis during the UFC St. Louis post-fight press conference
The 39-year-old has already begun exploring WWE opportunities. At the moment, he will likely continue to gain momentum after returning to the win column. As such, Lewis wants to continue in the UFC with WWE as an option down the line.
