UFC CEO Dana White is planning to host an Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House lawn on June 14, which is also President Donald Trump’s birthday. White has dismissed concerns that the event is “overtly political,” despite its location and timing.
As reported by Fox News, White pointed to his decades-long friendship with Trump, which dates back to his early days running the UFC. He endorsed Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign and spoke at the Republican National Convention.
When asked whether he should tone down political associations to avoid alienating fans, White rejected the idea. “How about be authentic and just be yourself?” he said, adding that people can disagree and still “get along.”
White says event reflects authenticity, not politics
White has previously brushed off criticism about holding the event at the White House, which is also tied to celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary. He said he does not see how the venue alone makes the fight political. The broader news cycle has also included a DHS terror alert call.
He compared Trump’s interest in UFC to other presidents’ sports preferences, noting that George W. Bush was a baseball fan and Barack Obama followed the NBA. In White’s view, a president’s fandom does not automatically politicize a sport.
White has also argued that Trump connects with younger audiences, including through appearances on popular podcasts aimed at male listeners. Separate coverage has focused on Americans moving abroad surge. He said he believed that demographic could relate to Trump, describing him as “a guy’s guy.”
Despite questions about optics, White has maintained that the White House event is simply an extension of his personal relationship with Trump and the president’s interest in the UFC. He has not indicated any plans to change or relocate the June 14 fight.
Published: Mar 3, 2026 05:45 am