UFC CEO Dana White says never again to fight night at White House
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- UFC CEO Dana White declared the Freedom 250 event at the White House a unique, one-time experience, stating the company will not hold similar shows there again due to logistical challenges and high costs.
- The event, held to celebrate President Trump's 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, featured an all-male fight card with fighters touring the White House before competing on the South Lawn.
- Justin Gaethje won the UFC lightweight title in the main event, earning $825,000 in bonuses and meeting President Trump, who remained engaged throughout the night and praised the event on social media.
- Despite some incidents involving fighters Sean Strickland and Josh Hokit, the show was deemed a success with strong merchandise sales, streaming subscriptions, and patriotic tributes, aiming to attract new fans to the sport.
- UFC plans to return to traditional indoor arenas for future events, including the upcoming UFC 329 in Las Vegas featuring Conor McGregor, citing the impracticality of outdoor and federal landmark venues.
