Dana White calls WHCD shooting 'awesome' after suspect detained

UFC CEO Dana White called the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting 'awesome'. This happened on April 25, 2026, and a suspect was arrested.
By Newsroom | Politics, Events |

UFC CEO Dana White recounted his experience at the White House Correspondents' Dinner (WHCD) on April 25, 2026, describing the shooting incident as "f*ing awesome." White stated he "took in every minute" of the event, choosing not to duck or hide despite the unfolding situation.

Law enforcement confirmed a suspect was detained following gunfire exchanged near a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton. The incident briefly halted the annual political gathering, with other attendees seeking cover under tables while security intervened. White was present as a guest.

UFC CEO Dana White Says WHCD Shooting Was 'Awesome' and He 'Took In Every Minute' of the Incident - 1

Account of the Incident

White, speaking to USA Today, described remaining standing during the chaos. He characterized the event as a "pretty crazy, unique experience." Video circulating on social media appeared to show White looking around during the commotion.

Details emerging from officials indicate the apprehended suspect, a 31-year-old man, faces charges including the use of a firearm and assault on a federal officer. Reports suggest the shooter may have intended to target members of the Trump administration. The Secret Service apprehended the individual, who was reportedly found with multiple weapons.

Read More: Melania Trump Asks ABC To Act On Kimmel's 'Hateful' Joke

UFC CEO Dana White Says WHCD Shooting Was 'Awesome' and He 'Took In Every Minute' of the Incident - 2

The White House Correspondents' Association president, Weijia Jiang, stated the remainder of the event was canceled but would be rescheduled within 30 days.

Context and Background

Donald Trump, who was present at the dinner, confirmed he and his party were safe. This marked his first appearance at the WHCD in over a decade. Reports suggest he was escorted from the stage by Secret Service agents shortly after the incident began.

UFC CEO Dana White Says WHCD Shooting Was 'Awesome' and He 'Took In Every Minute' of the Incident - 3

White's company, UFC, is scheduled to host a fight on the White House's South Lawn in the coming months. He has previously been described as a supporter of Donald Trump.

Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche commented that the shooter "set out to target folks that work in the [Trump] administration, likely including the president." Further charges are anticipated as the suspect's arraignment approaches.

Read More: Gunfire at White House Dinner: Trump Evacuated, Security Reviewed

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What did Dana White say about the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting on April 25, 2026?
UFC CEO Dana White described the shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner as 'f***ing awesome'. He said he watched the whole event and did not hide.
Q: What happened at the White House Correspondents' Dinner on April 25, 2026?
Gunfire broke out near a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton, briefly stopping the event. Law enforcement quickly detained a suspect.
Q: Who was affected by the shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner?
Attendees at the dinner, including Donald Trump, were affected. The event was cancelled and will be rescheduled within 30 days.
Q: What are the details about the suspect detained at the WHCD?
The suspect is a 31-year-old man facing charges for using a firearm and assaulting a federal officer. Reports suggest he may have intended to target members of the Trump administration.
Q: What happens next after the White House Correspondents' Dinner incident?
The White House Correspondents' Association president stated the event will be rescheduled within 30 days. More charges are expected for the detained suspect.