UFC-Fighter refuses to fight in the White House: No support
In an unprecedented move, the UFC is preparing to bring its octagon to one of the most symbolic addresses in the world, the White House South Lawn. The event, tentatively scheduled for June 14, 2026, is expected to coincide with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday, marking a first in both political and sporting history.
For years, Trump has been a familiar face cageside at major UFC events, often sitting near UFC CEO Dana White, one of his most outspoken supporters. Next summer, that partnership takes center stage, quite literally, as the action comes to him.
A Birthday Fight Night Like No Other
If approved, the White House showcase would be the first UFC event ever held at the presidential residence. Fighters including Conor McGregor and Jon Jones have already hinted on social media at wanting to headline the occasion.
Reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has gone further, publicly calling for a bout with Jones on the historic stage. While Trump has mentioned that one fighter already has a “done deal,” no official lineup has been confirmed.
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According to early discussions reported by CNN, Dana White described the idea of bringing combat sports to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue as “one of the most memorable nights the sport has ever seen.”
Changing Loyalties Inside the UFC
The upcoming event has also sparked fresh political debate within the MMA community. Bryce Mitchell, a featherweight fighter from Arkansas long known for his loyalty to Trump, has dramatically reversed course.
For years, “Thug Nasty” pledged his support for the president, once even saying he would “take a bullet” for him after a victory. That changed earlier this month, when Mitchell told fans in an emotional Instagram video that his views had shifted.
Mitchell didn’t mince words.
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“I’m not with Trump no more. I don’t support him, I don’t like him, I think he’s a corrupted leader, and it took me a while to come to that conclusion, but I finally am coming to it,” he said.
His statement instantly drew reaction from both fans and fellow fighters, many of whom had viewed him as a likely participant in the White House event.
Who Could Step Into the Cage?
While UFC officials have not confirmed any fights, speculation continues to mount. It’s not just the fighters talking, sportsbooks are already in on the action.
According to OBLG, Conor McGregor, Jon Jones, and heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall are currently listed as top betting favorites to appear. UFC legend Max Holloway and bantamweight star Sean O’Malley also rank high among likely contenders.
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White has suggested that the full fight card will likely be revealed closer to May 2026, leaving plenty of time for surprises, and more political theater, to unfold.
More Than Just a Fight Night
If realized, the event would symbolize more than sport. It would mark a moment where entertainment, politics, and national spectacle converge in a way few could have imagined. For the UFC, it’s another bold step into mainstream American culture. For the White House, it would be a night unlike any other.
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