Jalen Williams took to social media on July 12, 2026 to mock a major UFC broadcast blunder that misidentified Shakur Stevenson as the 2025 NBA Champion and Oklahoma City Thunder player during UFC 329 in Las Vegas.
What happened at UFC 329?
The UFC’s live broadcast and in-arena jumbotron displayed a graphic labeling Shakur Stevenson as the 2025 NBA Champion and member of the Oklahoma City Thunder during his ringside appearance at UFC 329 on July 12, 2026. Commentator Jon Anik also referenced Stevenson’s presence at the event. The mix-up aired immediately after footage of Thunder center Chet Holmgren.
How did Jalen Williams respond?
Williams, who goes by JDub on social media, reacted with a laughing emoji to the mix-up. He posted: “Sigh🤣🤣 — therealjalenwilliams (@jdubwttp).” The tweet captured the absurdity of the error and went viral among fans.
Why did Dana White call out the UFC?
UFC President Dana White publicly criticized the mistake during a post-event address. “I just paid Shakur Stevenson a shitload of money, and for some reason we can’t figure this celebrity shit out,” White said. “They put him up as a fucking OKC NBA player. Are you fucking kidding me? It’s absolutely crazy. We are the absolute worst to ever do the celebrity thing. When we put celebrities up, we are the worst.”
White’s outburst underscored the UFC’s recurring struggles with on-air graphics accuracy, especially for high-profile attendees like Stevenson, a former professional boxer who recently signed a multi-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing.
What’s next for Jalen Williams?
Williams remains focused on the 2026–27 NBA season with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder open their campaign on October 22, 2026 at home against the Dallas Mavericks. Williams, the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is coming off a season where he averaged 14.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting 41.1% from three-point range.
The UFC’s graphic gaffe adds another layer to the growing crossover between combat sports and mainstream celebrity culture, with athletes from other leagues increasingly spotted at big events.