US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event previously announced for the White House will take place on June 14 next year — coinciding with his 80th birthday.
Trump made the announcement on Sunday during a speech at Naval Station Norfolk, held in honour of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the US Navy. The president had first mentioned plans for a White House UFC event in July but had not provided a specific date until now.
The president, a longtime supporter of the sport, shares a close friendship with UFC President Dana White, whom he has often praised publicly. Their relationship dates back to the early 2000s, when Trump’s Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City hosted UFC events during a period when few American venues were willing to do so.
White recently told the Sports Business Journal that the UFC plans to spend approximately $700,000 to replace the South Lawn grass at the White House following the event.
Since assuming office, Trump has frequently attended UFC fights and has built strong ties with its fan base — many of whom form part of his political following.
TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC, has not yet commented on the upcoming event.
Melissa Enoch
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