Alex Pereira doesn’t sound optimistic about landing a spot on the much-hyped UFC White House card scheduled for June, and he’s not being subtle about it.
Despite UFC CEO Dana White insisting that matchmaking for the historic event won’t begin until at least February, the reigning light heavyweight champion appears convinced he won’t be part of it. Pereira fueled that belief on Monday when he posted a photo with White on Instagram, paired with a blunt caption that raised eyebrows.
“Looks like the White House is a NO GO!!!” Pereira wrote, offering no further explanation.
The comment quickly sparked speculation, especially since Pereira has openly pushed for a blockbuster showdown with Jon Jones on the White House card. The event is being planned as part of former President Donald Trump’s proposed celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, making it one of the most symbolic cards in UFC history.
Jones, who briefly retired after opting against a fight with Tom Aspinall, has since announced his intention to return. He has repeatedly expressed interest in facing Pereira on that White House stage, but the enthusiasm hasn’t been matched behind the scenes.
While Jones continues to campaign publicly, White has remained hesitant. The UFC boss has made it clear that he’s wary of booking Jones for such a high-profile event, citing the former champion’s history of last-minute withdrawals and issues both inside and outside the Octagon.
For Pereira, the apparent White House snub could signal a different plan entirely. The Brazilian recently reclaimed the 205-pound title with a devastating knockout of Magomed Ankalaev in October, avenging a loss he suffered seven months earlier. Since then, attention has shifted toward what comes next.
Rumors have circulated about a possible title defense against surging contender Carlos Ulberg in early 2026. The New Zealand-born fighter is riding a nine-fight win streak, with victories over Dominick Reyes, Jan Blachowicz, and Volkan Oezdemir boosting his résumé. Booking that fight earlier in the year could explain why Pereira doesn’t expect to be fighting on the White House lawn.
For now, Pereira’s message is clear. Whether by timing, trust issues, or alternative plans, the UFC White House card may move forward without one of its most dominant champions and without the Pereira vs. Jones clash fans hoped would headline it.
