DES MOINES, IOWA — In a bold and unconventional announcement, former President Donald Trump revealed plans for a UFC championship fight on the grounds of the White House, promising up to 25,000 spectators as part of next year’s America250 celebration.
The surprise declaration came during a speech at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where Trump appeared to rally support for his latest legislative victory — the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, which cuts taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security benefits.
A Cage Match on the White House Lawn?
“Does anybody watch UFC? The great Dana White?” Trump said. “We’re going to have a UFC fight — think of this — on the grounds of the White House.”
Trump, 79, said the event would be organized by UFC CEO Dana White, a longtime ally, and would coincide with the country’s 250th Independence Day celebration in 2026. The former president described the spectacle as just one of several professional and amateur events planned as part of the nationwide festivities.
“We’re going to build a little [arena] — we’re not, Dana is going to do it. Dana is great, one of a kind… 20,000 to 25,000 people,” Trump added.
America250: A Festival Across All 50 States
Trump outlined a sweeping vision for the America250 celebration, including:
- A “Great American State Fair” in Iowa and at fairgrounds nationwide.
- A massive patriotic festival on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
- A National Garden of American Heroes, featuring statues of prominent Americans.
- A Patriot Games sports competition, showcasing top high school athletes from every state.
- And in New York City, a six-day “Sail4th 250” event with tall ships, a Blue Angels airshow, and rare historical exhibits.
“Exactly one year from tomorrow, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding with a birthday party the likes of which you have never seen before,” Trump said.
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A Polarizing But Grand Spectacle
While the proposed bloody cage match on White House grounds is sure to energize supporters and UFC fans, it is also expected to draw criticism from political opponents who see it as unpresidential.
Still, Trump appears focused on reclaiming cultural ground, using sports and patriotic events to appeal to a broad swath of Americans in the lead-up to both America250 and the 2026 election cycle.
Would You Attend a UFC Fight at the White House?
Is it an exciting way to celebrate America’s 250th — or an inappropriate use of presidential space? Share your thoughts and join the national conversation at ridgecrestpact.org
