Newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel has caused some alarm within the bureau by suggesting a partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to enhance the physical fitness of FBI agents. During his first teleconference with the FBI’s 55 field offices, Patel proposed that the UFC could help design fitness programs for agents. While the specifics of this collaboration remain unclear, Patel’s suggestion quickly captured attention, particularly in light of his other controversial moves, like transferring hundreds of FBI staff to field offices and the looming threat of termination for employees who failed to document weekly accomplishments.
Patel’s push for greater fitness among agents comes as he attempts to establish himself as a strong leader after his recent appointment. While FBI officials were concerned about the physical fitness program, they were also troubled by other announcements, including the recent demand from the Justice Department to disclose agents involved in the January 6 investigations. Patel’s leadership style has been described as firm, as he also warned agents against leaks and other disobedience.
The UFC connection is notable due to its strong ties with President Trump and UFC CEO Dana White’s long-standing relationship with him. White, a major Trump supporter, has even been involved in promoting UFC events during politically charged moments. Patel’s proposal to tap into UFC’s fitness expertise appears to be influenced by both his personal connection to Las Vegas (home to UFC headquarters) and his broader push for sweeping reforms within the FBI.
While former FBI officials like Rich Frankel suggest that UFC-style training could improve the fitness standards of the FBI, they caution against letting the UFC take control of the bureau’s training programs. Frankel, who has worked within the agency for over 20 years, emphasized that the FBI has invited martial arts professionals in the past, but he drew the line at UFC becoming the dominant influence in agent fitness. The FBI, when asked about the proposal, declined to comment.
