UFC's AI Promo Video Sparks Fan Backlash

The UFC has drawn widespread mockery after releasing an AI-generated promo video for its UFC Freedom 250 event, scheduled for June 14 on the White House lawn. The video was meant to spotlight stars like Ilia Topuria, Alex Pereira, and Justin Gaethje, but fans quickly noticed the artificial visuals and a deepfake-style Dana White. The backlash intensified given the UFC's $7.7 billion Paramount deal, worth roughly $1.1 billion annually. Fans accused the promotion of disrespecting its audience by opting for what many called a low-effort, cost-cutting production for one of its most high-profile events.