UFC CEO Dana White is fully committed to orchestrating an unprecedented mixed martial arts event at the iconic White House.
Less than a year after the groundbreaking UFC 306 card captivated audiences at the Las Vegas Sphere, White is already deep in planning another unique, standalone event. This comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement earlier this month that the UFC is indeed working towards a White House card next year. This historic event is slated to be part of the nationwide celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Following Trump’s intriguing revelation, several high-profile fighters, including Conor McGregor and Jon Jones, have hinted at their potential return to the Octagon for this landmark occasion.
White Aims to Eclipse Sphere Event with White House Spectacle
With roughly a year remaining until the proposed White House event, plans are actively being developed to establish a compelling fight night atmosphere on the historic grounds. While security concerns likely mean limited public attendance, the audience is expected to primarily consist of the athletes’ families and special guests.
Despite the constraints on a full fan experience, White is determined to make this event grander than the highly acclaimed UFC 306 at the Las Vegas Sphere.
During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, White articulated his ambitious aspirations for the White House card:
“Obviously, everybody wants to fight on that card. And that’s a good thing – because we’re going to put on the best card we’ve ever done for that White House event. Just think about what I’m going to do for this fight, and then think about what [President] Trump is going to do for this fight.”
“It’s a one of one experience. Like when we did the Sphere, it’s the Sphere on steroids! It’s going to be a one of one event, and nothing like it ever again.”
White has frequently teased the possibility of legends like McGregor and Jones making their comebacks at this event. However, McGregor intensified the speculation by recently issuing a peculiar ultimatum to the UFC brass.
Conor McGregor`s Unusual Demand for a White House Return
McGregor recently stated he would only step back into the UFC Octagon if his teammate, prospect Lee Hammond, secured a contract with the promotion. Hammond was part of McGregor’s team during The Ultimate Fighter 31 season.
McGregor has been out of action since sustaining a leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. Meanwhile, Poirier is set to retire following his upcoming bout with BMF titleholder Max Holloway at UFC 318 this weekend.
For years, McGregor has consistently hinted at a UFC return, particularly since coaching opposite Michael Chandler on The Ultimate Fighter. A matchup between McGregor and Chandler at the White House could prove mutually beneficial and an attractive draw for the event.
