UFC’s Dana White Asks Trump to Reinstate Full Gambling Tax Deduction

UFC President Dana White is reportedly making a direct appeal to former President Donald Trump, requesting the reversal of a provision in the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA) that significantly limits gambling tax deductions. This development comes after lawmakers failed to repeal the controversial measure last year.

The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" and its Impact

The OBBBA introduced a 90% limit on gambling tax deductions, a change that has drawn criticism from various sectors within the gambling industry. Prior to this, gamblers could deduct 100% of their losses against their winnings, effectively only paying taxes on net winnings. The current limitation means that even if a gambler breaks even or incurs a net loss, they might still owe taxes on a portion of their gross winnings.

This legislative change has practical implications for individuals who frequently engage in gambling, including many video poker players. For those who play professionally or semi-professionally, or even high-volume recreational players, the ability to fully deduct losses is crucial for accurately reflecting their actual financial outcomes from gambling activities.

Key facts:

White's Letter to Trump

The appeal from Dana White to Donald Trump was initially reported by The Closing Line. White's letter specifically requests that Trump reverse the OBBBA's 90% limit on deductions. While the exact contents and arguments within the letter are not public, it is reasonable to infer that White is highlighting the perceived unfairness or negative economic impact of this provision on individuals within the gambling community.

The relationship between Dana White and Donald Trump is well-documented, with White being a vocal supporter of Trump. This existing rapport may provide White with a direct channel to express concerns regarding policies that affect industries and individuals he has connections with, including the broader gambling landscape.

Implications for Video Poker Players

For video poker players, particularly those who engage in higher volumes of play or consider it a significant hobby or even a supplementary income source, the tax deduction limit can have a substantial impact on their net profitability. Understanding the tax implications of gambling winnings and losses is a critical component of responsible play, alongside managing bankrolls and understanding game strategy.

If the full deduction were to be reinstated, it would simplify tax calculations and potentially reduce the tax burden for many players. This would mean that only true net winnings are subject to taxation, aligning more closely with the economic reality of gambling outcomes where losses are an inherent part of the activity. Players are encouraged to keep meticulous records of all their gambling wins and losses to accurately report their income, regardless of the current tax laws, and to consult with a tax professional.

Potential for Policy Change

The success of White's appeal remains to be seen. Any change to tax law would typically require legislative action, though executive influence can certainly play a role in shaping policy discussions and priorities. The fact that lawmakers previously failed to repeal the provision suggests that there are differing views on the matter within political circles.

This situation highlights the ongoing intersection of sports, entertainment, and public policy, particularly concerning industries like gambling that are subject to significant regulation and taxation. The outcome of White's appeal could signal future directions in how gambling income and expenses are treated under federal tax law.

Responsible Gambling and Financial Planning

Regardless of the tax laws in place, responsible gambling principles advocate for players to fully understand the financial implications of their activities. This includes budgeting for play, setting limits, and being aware of how winnings and losses affect their overall financial picture. The current tax deduction limit adds another layer of complexity to financial planning for gamblers, making it even more important to monitor one's gambling activities closely.

Players should always consider gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a guaranteed source of income. For those who do experience significant winnings, understanding the tax obligations and keeping accurate records is paramount to avoid unexpected financial liabilities.

Fuente: SBC Americas – UFC head White urges Trump to restore gambling tax deduction – https://sbcamericas.com/2026/05/14/ufc-white-trump-gambling-tax-deduction/