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FBI's UFC Training Sparks Outrage Over Leadership Priorities

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

FBI Director Kash Patel invited UFC stars to train agents at Quantico, describing the seminar as a chance for agents to learn from top athletes.
Critics, including former Obama spokesperson Tommy Vietor and political commentator Paul Rieckhoff, condemned the focus on UFC training amid pressing national security threats.
They questioned his leadership and priorities, with Paul Rieckhoff calling him "not a serious leader" and arguing the training is inappropriate.

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Story summary

FBI Director Kash Patel invited UFC stars to train agents at Quantico, describing the seminar as a chance for agents to learn from top athletes.
Critics, including former Obama spokesperson Tommy Vietor and political commentator Paul Rieckhoff, condemned the focus on UFC training amid pressing national security threats.
They questioned his leadership and priorities, with Paul Rieckhoff calling him "not a serious leader" and arguing the training is inappropriate.