Dana White Reportedly Carrying Millions in Gambling Debt with Red Rock Resorts

UFC CEO Dana White could face fresh scrutiny over his well-documented gambling habits as recent reports indicate that he might owe tens of millions to Red Rock Resorts. White’s unpaid marker with the Las Vegas casino operator allegedly stands between $25 million and $50 million. However, Red Rock appears to be in no rush to collect the debt, given its close ties with the UFC.

High-Stakes Wagering Is a Passion for White

According to a recent report by news outlet Casino.org, the massive debt likely stems from White’s high-limit baccarat and blackjack gameplay sessions at Red Rock Casino Resort in Summerlin, where he is a regular patron. While the company has refused to comment on the matter, speculation has arisen regarding how aggressively Red Rock will attempt to collect the debt, particularly given White’s historical ties with the Fertitta family, which owns Red Rock. 

White has a well-known reputation as a high roller. A brief search can reveal fan videos and social media posts of him wagering six-figure sums. More often than not, he is shown either winning or losing more in a single session than most gamblers witness in an entire lifetime. While White tries to cultivate the image of a winner, boasting about his milestone wins, the recent reports reveal a different story.

Red Rock’s willingness to allow White to continue gambling likely revolves around the Fertitta family’s close ties with the UFC. Their financial contributions were invaluable, helping transform the UFC from a small-scale fight promotion enterprise to a multibillion-dollar brand. Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta purchased the UFC in 2001 for $2 million and later sold their stake for a total of $9 billion. In short, White was the driver of the Fertittas’ most lucrative investment to date. 

Any Losses Are Unlikely to Affect His Relationship with Red Rock

Markers issued by casinos also carry distinct differences compared with standard bank loans. They act as lines of credit issued to trusted players, so no money leaves the operator’s books unless the player cashes out. For high-profile patrons like White, and especially in matters involving personal relationships, casinos usually tolerate prolonged repayment timelines. 

As the rumors regarding the debt circulate, White remains in the headlines for other reasons. He recently confirmed that a historic UFC event at the White House is in motion, scheduled to coincide with Independence Day. The event would be the first time a major combat sports promotion would take place in the Executive Mansion.

The good news for White doesn’t end here. CBS’s parent company, Paramount, recently inked a $7.7 billion UFC broadcasting deal, ending the organization’s dependence on its pay-per-view system. The new contract secures the sport’s financial health, allowing the UFC CEO to keep indulging in his multi-million-dollar wagering habits.