Newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel has sparked widespread debate within the bureau after proposing an unusual partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to enhance agents’ physical fitness. The proposal, made during a teleconference with the heads of the FBI’s 55 field offices, comes amid Patel’s controversial plans to restructure the nation’s premier law enforcement agency, sources revealed.
A surprising proposal
During the teleconference on Wednesday, Patel suggested that the FBI establish a formal relationship with the UFC, the Las Vegas-based mixed martial arts organization led by CEO Dana White. According to sources briefed on the call, Patel envisions UFC developing training programs to improve agents’ physical capabilities.
The proposal has generated buzz within the FBI community, with some officials questioning its necessity and implications. UFC, known for its brutal combat sport, has strong ties to former President Donald Trump, with White emerging as a key supporter of Trump’s reelection campaign. White was even present at Trump’s victory speech in November and shared the front row with billionaire Elon Musk at a high-profile UFC event following Trump’s election win.
Concerns over FBI restructuring
Patel’s tenure as director has already been marked by significant tension. Internal concerns were heightened last month when the Justice Department demanded a list of thousands of agents who had participated in investigations related to the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Patel reportedly sought to reassure agents on Wednesday’s call, even as fears persisted that those who simply followed orders could face termination.
Further uncertainty stems from Patel’s announcement that as many as 1,500 employees from FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C., would be reassigned to field offices and to a facility in Huntsville, Alabama. Additionally, an email sent last week from the Office of Personnel Management demanding that all federal employees provide a weekly report on their productivity or risk termination has fueled anxiety within the agency. The policy has been linked to the Trump administration’s newly established Department of Government Efficiency, reportedly guided by Musk.
During the call, Patel addressed concerns over the email and conflicting follow-up messages from the new administration. While emphasizing his commitment to national security and crime-fighting efforts, he also issued a stern warning against leaks and what he views as insubordination.
Experts weigh in on UFC partnership
Despite the controversy, some experts believe a partnership with UFC may have practical benefits. Frankel, a former FBI agent with over two decades of experience, noted that physical fitness is a crucial aspect of law enforcement.
“The FBI may benefit from increasing its physical fitness standards,” Frankel said, adding that some field offices have previously brought in martial arts specialists to train agents. However, he expressed skepticism over UFC’s involvement, stating, “I don’t want UFC to take over the gym.”
The FBI declined to comment on Patel’s proposal when contacted by ABC News.
As the new director moves forward with his ambitious and contentious agenda, it remains to be seen whether the UFC partnership will materialize—or whether internal resistance within the FBI will pose an even greater challenge for Patel’s leadership.