Brief
FBI seeks UFC trainers for mixed‑martial‑arts program, says internal document
The proposal, outlined in a September document, would let the UFC provide combat training to special agents, bypassing the usual federal bidding process.
By Felo News Desk · Published
According to a document released in September, FBI Director Kash Patel is pursuing a one‑year sole‑source contract with the UFC to provide mixed‑martial‑arts (MMA) training for special agents, the Independent reports.
The proposal, filed by Patel after attending President Donald Trump’s UFC birthday celebration at the White House, calls for UFC trainers to teach "defense tactical techniques" that include striking, grappling, weapon defense, ground control and conditioning. The document states the training aims to improve agents' physical combat abilities, mental toughness and tactical awareness in high‑risk situations.
Patel’s bid would bypass the standard competitive bidding process required for federal contracts, a practice the Trump administration has employed previously, the article notes. The contract’s financial terms were redacted, and the document says the one‑year term will allow market research and vendor preparation, with a competitive contract to follow later.
The FBI described the UFC as "uniquely qualified" to conduct the training, citing the organization’s expertise in the listed techniques. Dana White, UFC president and longtime Trump associate, has not been quoted in the report. Patel, a former Trump aide and current FBI director, has been seen at multiple UFC events and is a known fan of the sport.
The Independent reached out to the FBI for comment on the proposed deal but had not received a response at the time of publication.
Key facts
- FBI Director Kash Patel is seeking a one‑year sole‑source contract with the UFC for MMA training of agents. (independent.co.uk)
- The training would cover striking, grappling, weapon defense, ground control and conditioning. (independent.co.uk)
- The contract would bypass the usual federal competitive bidding process. (independent.co.uk)
- Financial details of the proposed contract were redacted in the released document. (independent.co.uk)
- Patel attended President Donald Trump's UFC birthday celebration at the White House before launching the bid. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Kash Patel wants to bring in UFC fighters to help train FBI agents: report”
