Dana White’s relationship with his wife, Anne White, is a story that stretches across decades, rooted in childhood and tested by the highs and lows of life. Their connection began long before Dana became a household name as the president of the UFC. Picture two 12-year-olds, crossing paths in middle school, never knowing that their childhood friendship would one day evolve into a marriage spanning decades. Anne White, born Anne Stella, has been by Dana’s side for over 28 years as his wife and more than 40 years as his best friend—a bond Dana frequently emphasizes, calling her his “best friend” in interviews.
Inside Dana White’s Family Life: Anne White and Their Three Children
Dana White married his wife, Anne White, in 1996, after meeting at age 12. They share 3 kids: son Dana III (b. June 2001), a football player at the University of San Diego; son Aidan (b. July 2002), an amateur boxer; and daughter Savannah (b. August 2006), their “miracle baby.” The family lives in Las Vegas.
In 1996, the couple tied the knot, embarking on a journey that would see them raising three children and navigating life in the public eye. Despite Dana’s global fame, Anne has largely stayed out of the spotlight, maintaining a low profile. She isn’t active on social media, and the couple is rarely photographed together in public. Their last major public appearance together, apart from a handful of private events, dates back to 2008 at an art exhibition. However, in March 2024, they made a rare appearance at a black-tie event at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, a notable deviation from their usual private lifestyle.
The Whites’ three children—Dana III, Aidan, and Savannah—are central to their lives. Dana III, born in June 2001, was their firstborn. Following in his father’s footsteps as an athlete, he found his passion in football. From flag football as a young child to playing as a safety for the University of San Diego, football has been more than a sport for Dana III—it’s been his life’s calling.
His father often compares his son’s passion for football to his own love for mixed martial arts. In June 2017, Dana celebrated his elder son’s 16th birthday with an unforgettable party, booking Kendrick Lamar to perform at the Brooklyn Bowl in Las Vegas—a testament to how deeply Dana values creating special moments for his kids.
Aidan Charles White, their second child, arrived in July 2002. Unlike his older brother, Aidan charted his own path in boxing. In March 2018, at just 15 years old, he made his amateur boxing debut at the St. Patrick’s Day Boxing Show, securing a win in the Junior Golden Gloves Division. Dana was proud but surprised by Aidan’s shift from football to boxing, explaining on social media how his son decided to pursue the sport just months after football season ended.
Outside of the ring, Aidan has a creative side, working for Thrill One, a company specializing in action sports content. Whether it’s surfing, snowboarding, or skateboarding, Aidan embraces an adventurous lifestyle, much like his father’s daring spirit.
The youngest of the White family, Savannah, born in August 2006, holds a special place in their hearts. Her arrival was nothing short of a miracle. After an ectopic pregnancy left doctors doubting Anne could conceive again, Savannah’s birth was a joyous surprise for the couple. Dana often refers to her as his “miracle baby.” Raising Savannah presented new challenges for Dana, who admits he feels a natural instinct to protect his daughter more than he did his sons.
Though she keeps a low profile, much like her mother, Savannah’s milestones haven’t gone unnoticed. For her 16th birthday in 2022, Dana spared no expense, renting out Jewel nightclub in Las Vegas for a star-studded party featuring performances by Lil Uzi Vert, DaBaby, and Louis the Child.
Dana White Faced Backlash After Public Slap Incident With Wife Anne
Life hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Dana and Anne. On New Year’s Eve in 2022, the couple made headlines after a public altercation at a nightclub in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Captured on video, the incident showed Anne slapping Dana, followed by Dana slapping her back. The footage, widely shared on social media, sparked controversy and public scrutiny.
Both Dana and Anne addressed the situation shortly after. Dana issued a public apology, taking full responsibility and stating there was “never, ever an excuse for a guy to put his hands on a woman.” Anne echoed his sentiments, calling the incident out of character for both of them and attributing it to excessive drinking that night. The couple worked through the issue privately, emphasizing that their main focus was their family. Dana later reflected on the ordeal, saying that while it was a personal matter that played out in public, his priority was ensuring their children understood who he and Anne truly are as parents.
“Don’t anybody defend me”: Dana White implores people who support him slapping his wife to stop. 🛑
Full interview: https://t.co/5bIOmmunHF pic.twitter.com/DtYsInImuM
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) January 11, 2023
Dana’s approach to fatherhood is deeply influenced by his own childhood experiences. Having grown up in a challenging environment, he’s committed to providing his children with support and opportunities to pursue their passions. Whether it’s throwing extravagant birthday parties or offering guidance in their chosen paths, Dana’s parenting style showcases his belief in living life to the fullest and encouraging his kids to do the same.
Anne, despite her preference for privacy, remains a pillar of strength in Dana’s life. Through decades of marriage, raising three kids, and navigating public controversies, the Whites have faced it all together. Dana has often said that marriage and parenting are about working through the tough times and focusing on what matters most: family. Their journey, filled with love and perseverance, keeps unfolding—evidence of their enduring bond and shared commitment to the life they’ve built together.