President Donald Trump announced plans to host a UFC match on the White House grounds, potentially attracting up to 20,000 spectators as part of the celebrations for America’s 250th independence anniversary in July 2026. Speaking in Iowa during the launch of a year-long festivities, Trump, an avid UFC fan and close associate of Dana White, the organisation’s president, expressed enthusiasm about utilising the ample space available at the White House for this event.
Alongside the UFC match, Trump revealed plans for a major festival on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and an athletic competition featuring high school students from across the United States. He emphasized that numerous events will be organised in national parks, battlefields, and historic sites nationwide to commemorate the milestone, stating, “Every one of our national parks, battlefields, and historic sites are going to have special events in honour of America 250.”
In discussing the UFC match, Trump mentioned that the event would be a “full fight,” insisting that the grounds of the White House are suitable for accommodating a large crowd of between 20,000 to 25,000 people. A spokesperson from the White House noted there were no further details available beyond the president’s announcement, though Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later affirmed that Trump was “dead serious” about the plan.
Recently, Trump has been spotted attending various UFC events, garnering standing ovations and enjoying cage-side seats, which have included notable appearances following his 2024 re-election and another event just the previous month alongside Dana White for two championship fights. This demonstrates Trump’s ongoing support and enthusiasm for the sport as he integrates it into the nation’s anniversary celebrations.