'I’m getting red shorts': Dan Ige seals gritty win outside Octagon as UFC gear rules spark debate in US

Dan Ige secured a gritty win that extended beyond the action inside the Octagon, drawing attention to the UFC’s US-only fight gear regulations. After receiving clearance, Ige joked, "I’m getting red shorts," a comment that subtly highlighted growing frustration over limited kit choices. The policy, which limits certain colors and designs at US events, has become a talking point among fighters and fans alike.

Ige, currently ranked No. 14 in the UFC’s featherweight division, revealed Thursday on social media that he was not permitted to wear red shorts for his upcoming bout against Melquizael Costa at UFC Houston in February. The Hawaii native explained that his choice of fight gear is restricted by the locations he is authorized to represent.

Formerly known as 'Dynamite', Ige shared part of a message from UFC or Venum officials stating that he may only represent the United States or opt for 'universal' shorts with no country affiliation during his walkout on February 21.


"Apparently, I can’t wear red shorts (even though I have 3 times in my 20 UFC fights) for my upcoming fight because USA does not have red. Even though Red symbolizes hardiness and valor in the American flag. And my Ancestry.com results aren’t enough to represent Japan. Anyone know what country camo is? Or pink? Or Orange? @Venum but I can wear purple??? Lol,” Ige wrote on X.


"Unfortunate, USA does not have Red as an option,” the alleged statement, shared by Ige, from the UFC or Venum staff said. “If there isn’t a country that you can provide documentation for that has red as a fight short color option. You would have to represent USA or Universal.”

The statement continued, limiting Ige to just four choices for his next fight, “USA fight short color options: Blue/black/white. Universal fight short color options: Purple/black/white.”

According to Sherdog, Ige has worn red shorts on multiple occasions in the past, despite the current restriction. Beyond his 2025 matchup with Sean Woodson, he sported red gear during his fight against Andre Fili in February 2024. Ige also wore red shorts earlier in his career when he appeared on Dana White’s Contender Series back in 2017, highlighting the contrast with the UFC’s present-day gear policies.