DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – On Thursday, President Donald Trump announced an ambitious plan to celebrate 250 years of American independence by potentially staging a UFC match on the grounds of the White House. He expressed that he is considering hosting the event for around 20,000 spectators, reflecting his enthusiasm for the sport. Trump has been a notable fan of mixed martial arts, having attended several UFC events recently and maintaining a close friendship with Dana White, the president of the UFC.
The announcement came during a kickoff event in Iowa, marking the beginning of a year-long series of festivities leading up to America's 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. Trump elaborated on his plans by stating that not only will the White House be a venue for the UFC match, but there will also be a culminating festival held at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., alongside separate athletic competitions featuring high school athletes from across the nation. Trump emphasized the significance of these events, saying, "So every one of our national parks, battlefields and historic sites are going to have special events in honor of America 250."
While the White House has yet to provide more details regarding the specificities of the UFC event, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed that Trump is "dead serious" about his plans for the match. Trump noted the ample space available on the White House grounds for such an event, suggesting a full-on fight with an expected audience of 20,000 to 25,000 people. His remarks highlight the mix of entertainment and patriotic celebration he envisions for the anniversary.
In recent months, Trump has garnered significant attention at UFC events, often receiving standing ovations and enjoying cage-side seats. His commitment to promoting the sport was evident in his presence at events, including one that took place shortly after the announcement of his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election. His recent appearances have further solidified his relationship with the UFC and its community, generating both excitement and intrigue regarding the future of such events at iconic locations.
