President Trump revealed on Sunday that a special Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event will be held at the White House on June 14, his 80th birthday. “And on June 14, next year, we’re going to have a big UFC fight at the White House, right at the White House on the grounds,” Trump stated. The White House has not yet confirmed details of the event.
UFC fighter Conor McGregor announced Wednesday that he will participate in the match-up. Last month, the White House disclosed plans for fireworks, light shows, fighter weigh-ins at the Lincoln Memorial, and fan activities across the National Mall. The UFC’s octagon cage is set to be installed on the White House south lawn, a venue first mentioned by Trump in July.
At UFC 320 on Saturday night, UFC CEO Dana White addressed preparations for the event. “Then in February, we’ll start looking at building the White House card,” White said. “I will right now tell you it will be the greatest fight card ever assembled in the history of this company.” However, he emphasized that negotiations for specific fights have not yet begun.
The UFC is transitioning to Paramount in January after a $7.7 billion deal to leave ESPN, where it has been broadcast for years. White noted that top fighters, including McGregor, are eager to participate but stressed no agreements have been finalized. “Conor wants to fight on that card, and you can clearly see he’s very fired up,” White said. “But nothing is done yet, and no fights are being negotiated with the White House.”