Dana White acknowledging that a lot of fighters are doing ayahuasca, and "they're never the same", and that he'd never do it

Dana White made his stance on ayahuasca clear during an interview with Nina Drama, discussing other fighters’ experiences with the substance and explaining how he feels about the possibility of trying it himself.

The conversation began with a question about a potential matchup between Sean Strickland and boxer Jai Opetaia. White said crossover fights between boxing and mixed martial arts rarely end well for those who venture into a different discipline, although he acknowledged that Strickland is a tough fighter with good hands.

The interview took a different turn when Nina Drama mentioned that Deontay Wilder had tried ayahuasca. White said he already knew about it and shared an impression he said he had formed after meeting several athletes who had experimented with the substance.

“I know a ton of guys that have done ayahuasca, and they're never the same after that,” he said. When the interviewer asked what had changed about them, the businessman explained that they seemed to become more loving or affectionate.

Nina Drama then wanted to know whether he would be willing to try the experience himself. White immediately ruled out the possibility, responding emphatically: “Not in a million fucking years.” His reaction made it clear that he has no interest in trying a substance that has sparked curiosity among athletes and other public figures.

What is ayahuasca, and why has it attracted so much interest?

Ayahuasca, also known as yagé, is a psychoactive brew traditionally used by some Indigenous communities in the Amazon. It is generally made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and plants containing DMT, a psychedelic compound capable of altering perception and consciousness.

In traditional settings, the brew is used in spiritual ceremonies and healing practices led by experienced members of these communities. In recent years, it has also attracted attention beyond these settings because of the intense experiences described by those who consume it and scientific interest in its potential therapeutic applications.

However, its effects are not without risks. Ayahuasca can cause nausea, vomiting and anxiety, as well as increase blood pressure and heart rate. It can also interact dangerously with certain medications and pose risks for some individuals.