Why are so many fans walking away from MMA? In this conversation, Reese Waters and I break down how the UFC transformed from an inclusive, global sport into a brand catering to a narrower audience. Reese explains why he stopped following MMA after the UFC began openly embracing partisan politics and alienating longtime fans. I share the messages I’ve received from people across the country who feel the same way, describing how the sport went from edgy and exciting to something that feels closed off, insular, and unwelcoming.
We also dig into the larger political parallels. Reese compares UFC’s strategy to how grievance politics dominates Capitol Hill, and I outline how a once-broad coalition has been traded for a smaller, loyal base. That gamble may make business sense in the short term, but it risks alienating millions of fans in the long run.
This is more than a sports story—it’s a conversation about culture, politics, and what happens when institutions choose sides. If you’ve felt disillusioned with MMA or politics in recent years, this discussion may resonate with you.
Watch the full interview with Reese Waters here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wt42oAO3g60
Learn more, and join in on the conversation on Luke’s Substack: https://lthomas.substack.com/
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