Dana White says Jon Jones was never considered for UFC White House Card. UFC CEO Dana White has dismissed speculation that former heavyweight champion Jon Jones could headline the upcoming UFC event scheduled to take place at the White House, stating the idea was never seriously considered.
Speaking after UFC 326 in Las Vegas, White made it clear that Jones was not part of the promotion’s plans for the historic card. The event, officially titled UFC Freedom 250, is expected to take place on June 14, 2026, on the grounds of the White House as part of celebrations around the 250th anniversary of the United State . White addressed the rumors directly during the post-fight press conference and strongly denied that Jones was ever in consideration. White also pointed to Jones’ health issues as one of the reasons the UFC was unwilling to move forward with the idea.
According to White, the former champion has been dealing with serious hip problems, including arthritis severe enough that doctors have reportedly discussed the possibility of hip replacement surgery.
The UFC boss referenced a video circulating online that showed Jones struggling while playing in a celebrity flag football game earlier this year. That footage raised questions about whether the 38-year-old fighter could realistically compete again at the highest level.
”Never, ever, ever, which I told you guys 100,000 times was Jon Jones even remotely in my mind to fight at the White House,” White said at the UFC 326 post-fight press conference. “First of all, I’ve told you why I wouldn’t do it and No. 2 some guy with Meta glasses on filmed him talking about his hips, that his hips are so bad and I don’t know if you guys saw that flag football game where he can barely run. Jon Jones, he retired because of his hips. He’s got arthritis in his hips, apparently doctors say he should have hip replacements. “That on top of all the other reasons that I wouldn’t [put him at the White House]. The Jon Jones thing is bullshit.”
While Jones will not be involved, the UFC is still preparing for one of the most unique events in the promotion’s history. The White House show will mark the first time a professional sporting event is staged on the grounds of the presidential residence.
The fight card was revealed during the UFC 326 broadcast, with several high-profile matchups expected to headline the event as the UFC attempts to deliver a landmark spectacle for fans worldwide.
For now, White has made it clear that Jones will not be part of those plans.
Here’s the full card for the UFC White House:
MAIN EVENT:
Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje
Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane — for interim heavyweight title
Sean O’Malley vs. Aimann Zahabi
Mauricio Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler
Bo Nickal vs. Kyle Daukaus
Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia
