In an unexpected comparison, President Donald Trump has likened the temporary UFC stage being constructed at the White House to the iconic Eiffel Tower, suggesting the structure could become a permanent fixture. The arena is being erected for the upcoming “Freedom 250” celebration, scheduled for June 14 on the White House South Lawn.

The event, also referred to as “UFC Freedom Fights 250,” marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and coincides with Flag Day, while also being described as a celebration for Trump’s birthday. President Trump initially announced the event last summer.

Speaking in a TikTok video, Trump drew a parallel between the temporary nature of the UFC stage and the Eiffel Tower’s origins. “People don’t know that in Paris, France, the Eiffel Tower, 1889 it was built. It was supposed to be taken down immediately after the world’s fair, and then they said: ‘leave it up a little bit longer, and then they said, ‘let’s leave it up longer and longer and longer.’ Well, they never took it down, and you know we’re building something in front of the White House that’s quite attractive to a lot of people. Really, it’s going to have the big UFC fight on June 14, and I’m looking at it and maybe we’ll never ever take it down,” Trump stated, as reported by ABC News.

A historic comparison

The Eiffel Tower, constructed for the 1889 World Exhibition, was indeed intended to be a temporary structure, initially slated for removal after 20 years, by 1909. Its architect, Gustave Eiffel, famously championed its preservation, ultimately securing its status as a permanent landmark, according to the Eiffel Tower’s website.

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The UFC arena, now visible from the White House North Lawn, is set to host a high-profile fight card. The main event will feature Ilia Topuria challenging Justin Gaethje for the UFC lightweight championship. The undercard is equally compelling, with Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane clashing for the interim heavyweight belt.

The White House South Lawn is a frequent venue for presidential activities, including Marine One arrivals and departures. However, press access to these movements from the South Lawn has been restricted since the week of May 20, leading up to the “Freedom 250” event.

Sources: abcnews.com

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