On October 6, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, United States President Donald Trump announced during the 250th anniversary celebration of the founding of the Navy that the White House will host the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event on June 14, 2026. Interestingly, this date also marks President Trump’s 80th birthday.
In his speech, Trump emphasized that during his second term, the United States will witness several significant events, including the upcoming 250th anniversary of the country’s founding next year, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
He said, “In addition, on June 14th next year, we will host a major UFC fight at the White House, right on the lawn inside the White House premises.”
Although Trump did not explicitly mention it, June 14th happens to be his 80th birthday, adding a personal milestone to this unprecedented White House sports event.
The octagon cage used for the event will be set up on the South Lawn of the White House. The White House informed the Congress Hill News that the activities of the day will include fireworks and light shows, and the fighters’ weigh-ins will take place at the Lincoln Memorial, while fan activities will be spread across the National Mall.
UFC President Dana White, a long-time friend of Trump, recently told Sports Business Journal that UFC will contribute $700,000 to re-sod the South Lawn grass after the event.
On August 28, Dana White announced on Instagram Live that the White House battle has been confirmed, saying, “We’ve got it all figured out today.”
Furthermore, UFC star Conor McGregor announced last Wednesday that he will participate in this fight.
Since taking office, Trump has frequently attended UFC events, with his most recent appearance being in June at a event in New Jersey. Trump’s relationship with White can be traced back to 2000 when Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City was one of the few U.S. venues willing to host UFC events.
TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of UFC, has not yet responded to media inquiries.
President Trump’s spokesperson Steven Cheung told The Wall Street Journal last month, “This will be one of the greatest and most historically significant sports events ever, with President Trump hosting the competition at the White House, embodying his vision to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.”