In a surprising move, FBI Director Kash Patel is contemplating a collaboration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to enhance the martial arts and self-defense skills of FBI agents. This plan was discussed during a recent video conference call with the bureau's 55 field office supervisors, as reported by four sources acquainted with the details of the conversation.
During this inaugural call, which took place on Wednesday, Patel shared his vision for the FBI's training initiatives. Sources, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the discussion, indicated that many current FBI agents found the proposal to be both "surreal" and "wacky." The FBI has opted not to comment on these developments, leaving the plan shrouded in uncertainty.
Interestingly, President Donald Trump has been an advocate for mixed martial arts, famously attending a UFC event shortly after his election victory. Trump's close friendship with UFC President Dana White highlights a personal connection to the sport. According to a UFC representative, however, there has been no official communication regarding any potential training partnership with the FBI.
During the call, Patel mentioned Dan Bongino, a right-wing podcaster and Trump's choice for FBI deputy director, as a significant influence behind the idea. Bongino's enthusiasm for the UFC inspired Patel to consider this unconventional training approach, which he described as "great." The idea of integrating UFC-style training into the FBI’s regimen raises questions about the appropriateness of such a partnership.
Critics of Patel’s proposal express concern over the motivations behind seeking training from a close associate of Trump. A former Justice Department official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, suggested that the FBI should not rely on the UFC for enhanced training, citing the risk of prioritizing "glitz and glamour" over effective law enforcement techniques.
This training proposal is part of a broader strategy by Patel, who recently took office and has already made waves within the bureau. One of his first significant actions was to propose the transfer of approximately 1,500 FBI employees from Washington, D.C., to various field offices across the nation, including a new office in Huntsville, Alabama.
In his recent book, Government Gangsters, Patel outlined his plans to restructure the FBI, advocating for moving its headquarters out of Washington and revising the traditional requirement that agents serve 18-month stints at headquarters before qualifying for supervisory roles. During the nationwide call, he reiterated his commitment to reshaping the FBI's operational framework by redistributing personnel to field offices.
Additionally, Patel announced that Bongino would begin visiting field offices as soon as he assumes his new position in mid-March, further emphasizing the administration’s intent to implement significant changes within the bureau.
As the FBI navigates these potential changes, the implications of incorporating UFC training into its programs remain to be seen, sparking debate about the best methods to prepare agents for the challenges they face in the field.
