UFC Unveils Plans for White House Fight on Trump’s Birthday
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The UFC is constructing an octagonal cage on the White House South Lawn for a fight scheduled on President Trump's 80th birthday, June 14, as part of events celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
- The cage design features a star-spangled arch and seating for thousands, with construction already underway; Trump described ticket demand for the event as exceptionally high.
- UFC president Dana White revealed that Trump initiated the idea during a shared event, leading to rapid logistical planning starting the following Monday.
- Ticket distribution includes 200 from UFC, 1,000 from Trump, 200 from UFC owner Ari Emanuel, and the remainder allocated to U.S. military members.
- Trump and White share a longstanding friendship, with mutual support benefiting both, including Trump hosting UFC events at his properties before his presidency and White endorsing Trump politically.