Dana White Punishes UFC Champion For Title Snoozer: GSP Fight Denied

By Ali Hammad July 30, 2025 10:27

UFC President Dana White has taken a firm stand against inactivity in the sport’s highest echelons by officially denying a much-anticipated superfight between reigning UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman and legend Georges St-Pierre. The decision comes amid mounting frustration over what White described as a “title snoozer” the champion’s extended absence from the octagon signaling a rare but significant punishment in a sport where star power and marquee matchups are prized above all.

The situation centers on Kamaru Usman, who captured the welterweight strap in a dominant reign characterized by his wrestling prowess, striking evolution, and several memorable title defenses, including a recent victory tallying 15 wins in his last 16 fights. However, since his latest title defense in March 2025, Usman has been notably inactive, citing minor injuries and personal matters but declining offers to expedite a GSP superfight that fans and pundits alike had dreamed of for years.

Dana White, speaking candidly at a media briefing on July 29, 2025, made it clear that patience had run thin. “We respect Kamaru as a champion, no doubt. He’s one of the best we’ve ever seen in the welterweight division. But this business moves fast, and fans expect us to deliver exciting fights. Sitting on the sidelines, not defending the belt, and holding up a superfight with GSP that’s just not how we operate,” White said. “There are contenders waiting for their shot. We can’t pause the division indefinitely.”

The UFC’s initial plan had placed the superfight between Usman and Georges St-Pierre widely regarded as one of MMA’s all-time greats in late 2025. St-Pierre, coming out of meticulous training and maintaining excellent shape following a hiatus, was eager to revisit the octagon against the current champ to settle the argument of welterweight supremacy once and for all. The matchup held immense draw power, projected to break pay-per-view records, cementing UFC’s legacy in the mainstream sports world.

Statistically, Usman’s recent consistency is undisputed: a four-fight winning streak in title defenses, averaging 12 significant strikes landed per round with a takedown success rate of 62%. However, the length between bouts now exceeding 16 months since his last fight before March has raised questions about the division’s momentum. The UFC’s welterweight rankings feature hungry contenders like Colby Covington, Leon Edwards, and a resurgent Gilbert Burns, all vocal about their eagerness to step in and challenge.

Regarding the decision, White emphasized that the UFC is prioritizing the division’s health and fan engagement. “If Kamaru can’t defend the title actively, we have to explore interim solutions. The fans deserve that. The sport moves forward with fighters willing to put their belts on the line.” UFC insiders indicate that the organization may strip the title or order an interim championship bout within the coming weeks if no progress emerges.

The champion responded through his social media, acknowledging frustrations but promising a return. “I respect the UFC and the fans. Health is my priority, but I’m training and ready to go soon,” Usman posted. His camp declined to comment further on the superfight status.

This unprecedented move by Dana White underscores a shifting landscape where even champions must balance personal readiness with organizational and fan expectations. The denial of the GSP superfight is both a rebuke and a reminder that the UFC’s business demands active competition, not prolonged sidelining of marquee names.

In summary, Dana White’s decision to punish UFC champion Kamaru Usman by denying the Georges St-Pierre superfight highlights tensions between athlete readiness and the promotion’s drive to maintain momentum in its divisions. With contenders pressing and fans clamoring for action, the welterweight title picture remains unsettled, promising high drama in the weeks ahead.