#Socialites, get a load of this! Ahead of President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday on June 14, the White House has begun constructing a UFC fighting cage on the South Lawn, along with seating for thousands. While Joe Rogan shares his criticisms of the outdoor events, Dana White feels honored to be included.
This week, construction began on a temporary octagon cage as the White House prepares to host several UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) events in celebration of the United States of America’s 250th anniversary.
One of the 250th anniversary events is “UFC Freedom 250,” which is set for Flag Day on June 14 — which also happens to be President’s Trump’s 80th birthday. According to the UFC, the June 14 event will feature six primetime fights between some of the biggest names in MMA (Mixed Martial Arts).
Last month, Trump told reporters that the red and blue ring would have enough space to hold 4,500 fans. He added that the Ellipse — a public park located directly south of the White House — would host a UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest, where another 50,000 to 100,000 people can watch the fights on “massive screens” for free.
Donald Trump Speaks On Upcoming UFC Fight Events On White House Lawn
Furthermore, it’s reported that weigh-ins will take place at Lincoln Memorial. Trump said, “I’ve been involved in a lot of big events; I have never had an event that has had more interest than the UFC fight we have right at the front door.”
Last week, Trump updated that tickets for the events were in high demand. He said, “I have never seen anybody want anything so much as people want those tickets. It’s a one of a kind U.F.C.”
President Trump has a close relationship with UFC President and CEO Dana White. Trump has allowed White to host several events at his properties and Trump has also sat courtside for many fights outside and during his two presidencies.
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Dana White Proud To Partner With Donald Trump For White House UFC Events, Joe Rogan Shares Criticism
During a recent interview with The New Yorker, White said Trump brought him the idea of hosting a fight on the White House lawn. He recalled them watching an event together when Trump leaned over and offered, “We should do a fight at the White House.”
White added, “And he’s like, ‘I think it would be great to have an event for America’s 250th.’ And so literally, that was a Saturday. On Monday, the White House started calling, saying, ‘Let’s start getting the logistics.’”
Meanwhile, Joe Rogan shared his own unique criticisms of the event. While taking to his ‘Joe Rogan Experience‘ podcast, he spoke with former UFC fighter Josh Thompson and 24-year UFC referee “Big” John McCarthy. Rogan said, “The White House thing is odd. I don’t like it. I don’t like the idea of fighting outside at all. How about dehydration?”
McCarthy agreed, “Well, there’s problems with it.” Thompson added, “You add the lights, that attracts bugs.” Rogan agreed, “The bugs are a big one.”
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