However later people stopped talking about it. The UFC aired a promotional spot during the broadcast that used AI-generated artwork for the main card.
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Fans watching at home noticed this almost immediately. Criticism began on social media shortly after, with many asking why the promotion could not hire actual artists to handle the design work.
The criticism reached Dana White during the post-fight press conference and the UFC president did not hold back when reporters brought it up.
“Give me a (expletive) break. AI is coming, and if we’re using AI, who gives a (expletive)? People are upset about it, we should be using artists,” White said according to the championship round. “How about this, stop the (expletive) and watch the fights.”
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White’s comments are sparking much debate in the MMA community. The Ultimate Fighting Championship has begun incorporating AI into its creative process, a move that mirrors what TKO Group Holdings is doing with WWE.
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This is part of a broader trend among major sports organizations, with many moving away from traditional design work and leaning more on automated systems.
Nevertheless, AI-generated visuals continue to receive backlash from fans who question whether the approach sacrifices authenticity for convenience.
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