The Ultimate Fighting Championship is set to hold a unique event at the White House in 2026, as US President Donald Trump confirmed plans to stage a UFC fight to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The fight is expected to draw an audience of around 20,000 people, highlighting the significance of the milestone.
Speaking in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump declared,
“We’re going to have a UFC fight on the White House grounds,”
and added,
“We’ve got a lot of land there.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt also affirmed that Trump is “dead serious” about the proposal, boosting anticipation surrounding the event.
Plans and Uncertainties Surrounding the Historic UFC Match
The America 250 celebrations will feature events at national parks, historic battlefields, and various sites across the country. Among these planned activities, Trump has suggested that a UFC fight could be one of the highlights. Despite media speculation over the weekend about the readiness and feasibility of the event, Trump’s public remarks indicate his intent to move forward with the idea.
A UFC representative confirmed that more information would be shared “in due time,” leaving fans and officials eager for further announcements.
Top Fighters Show Enthusiasm for Potential White House Match
News of the proposed UFC fight has already stirred excitement among leading fighters, with former two-division champion Conor McGregor expressing his interest publicly. Although McGregor has not fought since July 2021, he wrote on social media,
“I would be honoured,”
and
“Count me in!”
His involvement would add significant prestige to the event given his status as one of UFC’s most high-profile athletes.
Following McGregor, recently retired fighter Jon Jones also voiced enthusiasm, posting,
“Fighting at the White House?”
and adding,
“I like this.”
This growing roster of potential participants intensifies expectations for a memorable event.
Trump’s Longstanding Connection to Combat Sports and UFC Leadership
While no official confirmation has been made yet, the announcement has generated nationwide interest with more than a year until the proposed date. Trump maintains a close relationship with UFC president Dana White, who supported Trump’s recent election campaign and frequently appeared at his rallies. Trump has often praised White for his loyalty and backing.
Beyond the UFC, Trump has been a lifelong supporter of combat sports. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he promoted and organized boxing matches, leveraging his Atlantic City casinos and hotels such as the Trump Plaza and Trump Taj Mahal as key venues.
During this era, Atlantic City became a boxing hub largely due to Trump’s involvement. He was more than just a venue host; he also negotiated deals and secured media coverage for major fights. His presence at events often emphasized his image as a successful businessman overseeing high-profile sporting occasions—a strategy that enhanced his brand and properties.
Historical Boxing Milestones Hosted by Trump
One of the most notable events Trump hosted was the June 27, 1988 fight at Trump Plaza between Mike Tyson and Michael Spinks. Tyson was the reigning heavyweight champion holding the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles, while Spinks, an undefeated former champion, was seen as a strong contender. Tyson’s swift 91-second knockout victory remains one of the sport’s most dominant displays.
Although Trump was not the official promoter of the fight, he invested millions to make it happen at his casino, sitting front row with celebrities, politicians, and other prominent guests. His aim was clear: to position his casino as the world’s entertainment epicenter, a goal that was largely successful.
Looking Ahead to a Potentially Historic Sporting Event
The possibility of a UFC fight at the White House grounds marks an unprecedented intersection of politics, sports, and national celebration. Should it come to fruition, the event will likely break new ground in the way major sports spectacles are presented in connection with national history. With McGregor and Jones already voicing interest, and Trump’s history of promoting fight events, this announcement has set the stage for what could be a landmark occasion in both UFC and American cultural history.