Dana White explains why UFC has delayed using Trevor Wittman’s new fighter gloves: “It’s impossible”

Dana White has shed light on why UFC hasn’t closed the deal to use Trevor Wittman’s fighter gloves.

Eye pokes in MMA have long been a significant issue. Back in Oct. 2025, the problem reared its ugly head when UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall was poked in both eyes by Ciryl Gane in the opening frame of their title fight. The UFC 321 headliner was ruled a no contest and Aspinall underwent multiple surgeries on both eyes.

For years, Wittman, a top MMA coach, has touted his premium MMA gloves, which were designed to reduce eye pokes and provide increased wrist protection. Many have wondered why the UFC brass hasn’t jumped at the opportunity to have their fighters wear the ONX gloves, but now there is an answer.

During the UFC Vegas 119 post-fight press conference, White told reporters that the asking price for the gloves is a no-go.

“We’ve been talking to Trevor for years,” White said. “Rashad Evans, whom I love and respect, came to me and said, ‘Hey, listen, I’m invested in this thing. We think we have a great product here and I would love to introduce our glove that Trevor built.’ I literally told my finance team, ‘Get this deal done. I don’t care what it takes. Get the deal done.’ They wanted like $100 million for the glove. You know how many [expletive] gloves you gotta sell to make $100 million? It’s impossible.”

The UFC boss still hopes that something can be worked, but not at the hefty price tag he mentioned.

“That deal should’ve been done years ago,” White said. “I wanted to do that for Rashad. So, we’ll see.”

Talk of Wittman’s ONX gloves resurfaced when the renowned coach appeared on Joe Rogan’s “JRE MMA Show.” Wittman revealed that he recently spoke to UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell about possibly getting a deal done. Time will tell if it finally comes to fruition before the end of 2026.

What do you make of the holdup preventing UFC from bringing in Trevor Wittman’s gloves? Does Dana White make a fair point? Share your opinion below.