In a move that could reshape federal law enforcement training, newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel is exploring potential collaboration with the UFC to enhance agents’ martial arts and self-defense capabilities.
During a Wednesday teleconference with 55 FBI field office leaders across the United States, Patel discussed the possibility of incorporating UFC fighters and coaches into the agency’s training programs. The proposal extends beyond combat skills to include comprehensive physical fitness programming for FBI personnel.
“If they’re trying to up their physical fitness, the UFC is very specific in their fitness,” said Rich Frankel, the former special agent in charge of the FBI’s Newark, N.J., office, in comments to ABC News.
ADCC champion Gordon Ryan shared images of himself with Patel sometime last month and voiced his support for his position.
The potential partnership appears to align with existing relationships between the UFC and the current administration. UFC CEO Dana White has maintained close ties with President Donald Trump, actively supporting his re-election campaign and speaking at his victory celebration in November.
The connection was further highlighted when Trump attended UFC 309 in New York City, watching from cageside alongside family members, entrepreneur Elon Musk, and musician Kid Rock. Trump has been a regular presence at UFC events, frequently expressing admiration for the organization’s athletes.
While this would mark the first formal collaboration between the FBI and UFC, law enforcement agencies have previously worked with mixed martial arts experts. Greg Jackson, trainer of UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones, has provided self-defense instruction to New Mexico police officers and SWAT teams, focusing on physical control techniques during operations.
Similarly, renowned referee John McCarthy has served as a Los Angeles Police Department tactics and self-defense instructor.
The timeline for implementing such a partnership remains unclear, as Patel has only recently assumed his position as FBI Director. The agency has yet to announce specific details about how this potential collaboration might take shape.
