White refutes rumors of McGregor rift: 'Never, ever was this about money'

Appearing on "The Herd" with Colin Cowherd on Wednesday, Dana White stood by his explanation for Conor McGregor's removal from the upcoming UFC 200 event in July.

The UFC president insisted that McGregor's absence is strictly due to his refusal to fulfill his media obligations and not due to rumors of the superstar wanting an eight-figure pay day.

“Never, ever was this about money," White said.

White went on to stress that everyone in the UFC is expected to promote their fights, comparing the situation to an actor not appearing in commercials for a television show.

Still, he refused to acknowledge any tension in the relationship and he explained that McGregor is ultimately responsible for the cancellation of his rematch with Nate Diaz.

“I'm not mad at Conor, obviously Conor made a decision and made a choice to not want to fight on this card," White said. "That's how he gets paid, that's on him, man. The show will roll on.”

When Cowherd asked if he believed the retirement was real, White answered, "I do not," and went on to say that there was a chance the UFC 200 main event could be saved.

"Yeah, if he called me after this interview, we'd probably still do it," White said.