Dana White Eyes Bodybuilders and WWE Hopefuls to Boost Power Slap With Big Money Promises

[Kayce]

Dana White, CEO of the UFC, has set his sights on expanding the controversial Power Slap League by recruiting athletes outside traditional combat sports. His strategy? Offering “real money” to groups that often struggle for stable income—bodybuilders and aspiring WWE wrestlers. By targeting these athletes, White is betting on their physical size, toughness, and willingness to perform in front of crowds to fuel Power Slap’s growth.

Why Bodybuilders and WWE Hopefuls?​

Bodybuilders are already known for their physical dominance, while pro wrestling hopefuls often sacrifice their bodies for minimal pay in pursuit of fame. According to White, many wrestlers “jump off ladders onto tables full of tacks for \$50 a night.” In contrast, Power Slap offers them the chance to earn significantly more while showcasing their toughness in a competitive arena.

Recent interest from strongman legend Eddie Hall, whose slap-fighting cameo made headlines, highlighted the potential of recruiting such athletes. Hall’s viral moment proved that audiences are fascinated by larger-than-life figures testing their limits in slap fighting.

The Challenge of Growing a New Combat Sport​

Unlike MMA and boxing, slap fighting lacks a deep talent pool. White acknowledged this gap, comparing the UFC’s early days with Power Slap’s uphill climb. While the UFC had existing competitors like PRIDE FC in Japan, slap fighting is still fragmented, with leagues in Russia, Poland, Brazil, the U.S., and South Africa, but without a steady supply of polished talent.

To solve this, the UFC Performance Institute has begun running combines to test and prepare new athletes. White’s pitch is clear: “Any big guys out there—bodybuilders, pro wrestling hopefuls—come to Power Slap and make real money.”

Criticism From the Medical Community​

While White pushes expansion, medical experts are sounding alarms. Doctor Mike Varshavski, a physician and fighter, blasted slap fighting as a “nonsense sport.” His main criticism is that it removes the protective aspects of traditional combat sports while amplifying the risks. Unlike boxing or MMA, where defense and conditioning are integral, slap fighting forces participants to absorb repeated head trauma without protection.

He argued that slap fighting “takes the unhealthiest aspect—head blows—and removes the healthiest part—training and conditioning.” This perspective has fueled ongoing debate about whether Power Slap should be recognized as a legitimate sport or dismissed as reckless entertainment.

Power Slap’s Business Edge​

Despite criticism, White insists money is not the problem—finding athletes is. The UFC’s global brand power gives Power Slap unmatched visibility compared to smaller leagues. With backing from White and the UFC machine, Power Slap is uniquely positioned to become the dominant player in this emerging spectacle sport.

White’s financial backing ensures fighters will be paid far more than in grassroots wrestling promotions or low-tier bodybuilding competitions. His approach mirrors the UFC’s growth story: building stars, consolidating talent, and transforming a fringe spectacle into a mainstream combat attraction.

The Future of Power Slap​

Power Slap remains controversial but undeniably attention-grabbing. White’s recruitment of bodybuilders and pro wrestling hopefuls could transform the league from a sideshow curiosity into a spectacle with mainstream crossover appeal. Whether athletes will embrace the risks for financial reward—and whether the sport can withstand ongoing medical criticism—remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: Dana White is betting big on turning raw strength and entertainment into the next combat sports sensation.