President Donald Trump said Sunday that the much-trumpeted UFC fight on the White House lawn would take place on June 14, 2026 ― the same day as the president’s 80th birthday.
Trump first announced in July that a mixed-martial arts event on the grounds of the White House would mark the United States’ 250th anniversary next year, but did not specify the exact date.
Now the president has confirmed the date of the “big UFC fight at the White House” during a weekend speech at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. He failed to mention that the fight will now fall on his birthday.
The proposed event echoes how a military parade rolling down the streets of Washington, D.C., on June 14 this year was held to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, but also doubled as Trump’s 79th birthday party.
The $45 million attempted show of military might, which perhaps will be best remembered for a squeaky tank trundling past half-empty bleachers, reportedly “disappointed” Trump.
He will doubtless be hoping for something more impressive to mark the start of his ninth decade on Earth.
When Trump first teased the fight, he said he wanted 25,000 spectators in attendance and revealed Dana White, the CEO of UFC, was all in.
“Dana’s gonna do it, Dana’s great, one of a kind,” Trump said of the UFC boss who has repeatedly endorsed the Republican’s presidential runs.
White confirmed to “CBS Mornings” in August that “it is definitely going to happen,” and suggested it would take place on July 4, 2026, as part of a yearlong celebration for the nation’s 250th birthday.
He also revealed Ivanka Trump, the president’s oldest daughter, is helping to organize the event.
Last week, Conor McGregor told Fox News that he would be on White House fight card, though White has countered that his team has “not started negotiating” with any potential fighters.
Fight night at the president’s residence would mark the latest effort by Trump to remake the White House in his own image.
He’s gilded the Oval Office, paved the Rose Garden, and added two massive flag poles.
Trump’s also demolishing the East Wing to construct a $200 million ballroom, and has created a “Presidential Walk of Fame” ― a row of gold-colored frames featuring photographs of past presidents ― with the primary goal seemingly to goad former President Joe Biden.