Dana White slams Frontier Airlines as ‘Piece of Sh*t’ for removing Khabib from flight

Dana White criticises Frontier Airlines for removing Khabib from a flight after a dispute over sitting in an exit row.
Sports Desk | January 16, 2025

“If there’s anybody you want in that position, it’s Khabib Nurmagomedov," said the UFC CEO.

UFC CEO Dana White, speaking to the media ahead of UFC 311, has weighed in on the recent incident involving Khabib Nurmagomedov being removed from a Frontier Airlines flight, expressing both disbelief and frustration at the situation.

“What the f*** is he doing on Frontier Airlines anyway?” White remarked during an interview, as part of media day for UFC 311. “This kid’s got more money than anybody, but that’s how humble he is. He’s flying on that piece of sh*t airline.”

The altercation sparked controversy online, with some suggesting racial or religious profiling may have played a role. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) called for a full investigation, while Frontier Airlines issued a statement denying such allegations.

“As a result of the customer’s initial unresponsiveness and repeated declinations of a seat change, he was asked to deplane per airline and FAA policy,” Frontier Airlines stated. “The decision to deplane the customer was in no way related to his ethnicity, and we have refunded him and his traveling companions.”

As a response to the incident, Khabib had previously released his account of events on his instagram.

White was especially critical of Frontier’s decision to remove Nurmagomedov, citing the fighter’s background and capabilities. “That’s how dumb they are at Frontier Airlines,” he said. “If there’s anybody you want in that position, it’s Khabib Nurmagomedov. Good job, Frontier Airlines.”

He also highlighted Nurmagomedov’s financial success, questioning why the retired UFC Hall of Famer was flying on a budget airline. “Khabib doesn’t fight anymore because he’s got sh*tloads of money,” White said. “I’ve got to teach Khabib how to charter a plane, especially if you’re just going from Vegas to San Francisco.”

White further emphasised Nurmagomedov’s wealth, referencing lucrative endorsements and appearances following his iconic win over Conor McGregor. “After he won the Conor McGregor fight, he went on like the Muslim world tour. Saudi Arabia rained on him, Abu Dhabi rained on him, Qatar rained on him, [Vladimir] Putin rained on him,” White said.

“Khabib shouldn’t even know what the f*** Frontier Airlines is, just like most people don’t,” he added.

Load Next Story

Join Us

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, redistributed or derived from. Unless otherwise stated, all content is copyrighted © 2025 The Express Tribune.

FOLLOW US