Earlier this year, UFC CEO Dana White revealed that the MMA promotion would host one of its biggest fights on the White House lawn to celebrate Independence Day next year. Now, it seems plans have changed, as President Donald Trump intends to make the event part of his birthday celebration.
“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 of the White House,” Trump told a crowd of Navy sailors at the huge naval base in Norfolk, Virginia.
While UFC CEO Dana White had previously mentioned the event taking place in June, this is the first time a specific date has been suggested. If Trump’s statement proves accurate, it would mark a rare Sunday event for the UFC, which typically runs pay-per-views and Fight Nights on Saturdays.
White has been cautious about revealing too many details about the UFC White House event, explaining that there are still several logistical issues to resolve.
“We’ll start looking at building the White House card, which I will right now tell you will be the greatest fight card ever assembled in the history of definitely this company,” White said.
The renovations required to accommodate the UFC event could cost up to $700,000, according to Dana White, but he remains optimistic that everything will be ready before the event.
It’s no secret that Trump has been a longtime supporter of the UFC and has attended multiple shows. During his second presidential tenure, Trump announced plans for a UFC White House event, and despite the date change, Dana White remains confident the fight will happen.
