In a recent development, FBI Director Kash Patel has proposed a collaboration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to enhance the martial arts and self-defense training of FBI agents. This initiative aims to leverage the UFC’s expertise in mixed martial arts (MMA) to bolster the physical preparedness of federal agents.
During a video conference with the FBI’s 55 field office supervisors, Director Patel introduced the idea of partnering with the UFC. The goal is to integrate UFC trainers into the FBI training programs, focusing on improving agents’ combat skills and physical fitness.
“If they’re trying to improve their physical fitness, the UFC is very specific in their approach to fitness,” said Rich Frankel, the former special agent in charge of the FBI’s Newark, N.J., office, in an interview with ABC News.
Integrating UFC trainers could introduce advanced combat techniques and physical conditioning methods into the FBI’s training regimen. This collaboration might enhance agents’ abilities to handle physical confrontations more effectively.
UFC CEO Dana White, a staunch supporter of Donald Trump, may soon see his commitment pay off, as the UFC could partner with the government. White campaigned for Trump during his re-election push and even spoke at the celebration following Trump’s victory this past November.
Just days after his victory, Trump attended UFC 309 in New York City and sat cage-side to watch the action with several members of his family, billionaire Elon Musk, and musician Kid Rock. Trump has become a familiar face at several UFC events over the past few years and frequently praises the athletes who compete in the organization whenever asked about his attendance.
As of now, the FBI and UFC have not provided official statements regarding this potential partnership. However, it is expected to be smooth sailing, as several trainers have previously worked with security organizations. Some of these trainers include Greg Jackson, who coaches UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and has taught self-defense to police officers in New Mexico. Jackson has even worked with SWAT team officers to help them learn how to physically control individuals during a raid. Another notable trainer is John McCarthy, a MMA referee who has worked as a tactics and self-defense instructor for the Los Angeles Police Department.
Further discussions and evaluations are expected to determine the feasibility and appropriateness of integrating UFC training into the FBI’s programs.
