President Donald Trump announced Thursday, July 3, that he plans to host a UFC fight on the White House grounds next year as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration, marking what would be an unprecedented sporting event at the nation’s most famous residence.
Speaking at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Trump outlined his vision for the event, which he described as a championship fight accommodating 20,000 to 25,000 spectators. The President indicated the fight would be part of a broader series of events celebrating America’s 250th independence anniversary on July 4, 2026.
Trump emphasized the practical feasibility of the event, noting that the White House complex provides sufficient space for such an undertaking. He revealed that UFC President Dana White would organize the event, describing it as a “full fight” with championship stakes. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the President’s commitment to the plan, stating he was “dead serious” about the proposal.
The announcement represents the culmination of a longstanding relationship between Trump and the UFC organization spanning more than two decades. Their partnership dates back to 2001, when Trump hosted a UFC event at his Trump Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City during a period when the organization struggled to secure venues. White has credited Trump with providing crucial support during the UFC’s early development phase.
The President’s recent appearances at UFC events have generated significant attention and enthusiastic crowd reactions. In June, Trump attended UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey, where he received a thunderous ovation from the sold-out crowd. His entrance included his signature dance moves as he made his way to ringside seating alongside White for two championship fights.
Trump’s UFC attendance history includes multiple high-profile events, including an appearance immediately following his 2024 reelection victory and another at UFC 314 in Miami with a large entourage including his granddaughter Kai Trump and FBI Director Kash Patel. These appearances have strengthened his connection with the UFC’s predominantly right-leaning fanbase.
White’s support for Trump extends beyond their business relationship into political advocacy. The UFC CEO introduced Trump at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in 2024, where he described the President as a “fighter” and praised his resilience. Their friendship, which White has characterized as spanning 25 years, has become a significant element of Trump’s outreach to combat sports audiences.
The proposed White House event would coincide with broader America 250 festivities planned across the country. Trump announced that every national park, battlefield, and historic site would host special events honoring the milestone anniversary. Additional planned events include a festival on the National Mall in Washington and an athletic competition called the “Patriot Games” featuring high school athletes from across the country.
The UFC has confirmed discussions with the White House regarding the event, though specific details remain undetermined.
The announcement has already generated interest from high-profile fighters seeking to participate in the historic event. Former UFC champion Conor McGregor expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating on social media that he would be honored to participate and asking to be counted in for the event. McGregor, who has not fought in over four years, shared his excitement about the prospect of competing at such a unique venue.
Steven Cheung, Trump’s White House Communications Director and former UFC Director of Communications, has highlighted the strategic value of the President’s association with combat sports. He has noted that UFC events provide Trump with direct access to voters who may not engage with traditional news media, offering an “unvarnished filter” for political communication.
The proposed event would present substantial logistical challenges, including security arrangements, infrastructure development, and crowd management for tens of thousands of spectators on White House grounds. The National Park Service, which manages the White House grounds, has not yet commented on the proposal or any potential permit requirements.
Trump’s announcement comes as the UFC continues to expand its mainstream appeal and cultural influence. The organization has previously demonstrated flexibility in venue selection, including its “Fight Island” concept during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting organizational willingness to accommodate unique event locations.
