Construction is underway on the South Lawn of the White House to host UFC events in conjunction with the United States’ 250th anniversary celebration.
WASHINGTON — Construction is underway on the South Lawn of the White House, where crews are erecting steel arches, lighting and broadcast infrastructure to complete a temporary stage. “UFC Freedom 250.”
The professional fighting event tied to the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States is scheduled for June 14, which marks Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.
The most prominent feature currently taking shape is a stars-and-stripes arch that will extend over the octagonal fight cage, featuring a red, white and blue color scheme and extensive lighting effects. The semicircular structure behind the octagon was manufactured in Pennsylvania and shipped to Washington, where workers began assembling it earlier this week.
The stands surrounding the octagon are expected to seat approximately 5,000 people, including veterans, and no public tickets will be available. In addition to these stands, more than 85,000 fans are expected to gather at the Ellipse across from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue to watch the game on big screens. The event will be streamed live on Paramount+.
Mark Shapiro, president of UFC parent company TKO, said the card’s production costs, including fighter compensation and fan events, will likely cost at least $60 million and could be higher.
UFC CEO Dana White told Sports Business Journal The company will spend an estimated $700,000 to replace damaged turf on the South Lawn.
The main event will feature Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria. The game has been designated Special Event Assessment Level 1, the highest safety level available.
UFC CEO Dana White said he intends to use the White House as a backdrop for future fights.
