In a groundbreaking move for combat sports, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has laid the foundation for its first-ever live event at the White House. UFC President Dana White has confirmed that the ambitious plan is moving full steam ahead, with the historic fight night scheduled for June 14 in Washington, D.C..
Logistics Locked In: Seating, Staging, and Scale Finalised
After months of intricate planning, the promotion has crossed a critical milestone. Dana White announced that all major logistical hurdles have been cleared. The framework for the unprecedented event is now firmly in place.
"We got all the logistics done," White stated emphatically during an appearance on the Spinnin Backfist MMA Show. "We know where we are, we know how many seats, we know what the rigging is going to look like." The planning includes detailed maps for fighter walkouts, staging areas, and movement paths for athletes and staff.
With the blueprint locked, the UFC can now shift its full focus to the most exciting part: building the fight card. White indicated that matchmaking will begin in earnest after January 24, with February targeted as the official start point for announcing bouts.
A Massive Audience on the White House Lawn and Beyond
The scale of the event is set to be monumental. In an interview with CBS Mornings, White revealed the audience plans. The iconic Octagon will be placed on the White House's South Lawn as part of the America250 celebrations.
A limited, exclusive live audience of approximately 5,000 people will witness the fights from this prestigious location. However, the experience will extend far beyond the White House gates.
"Across the street is the park, it's called the Ellipse, I think, and we can have 85,000 people there," White added. This means a potential combined live audience of 90,000 spectators. The setup at the Ellipse will feature large screens and a stage, with music planned throughout the day, transforming it into a massive fan festival.
Unprecedented Demand and a Paramount+ Exclusive
Even before tickets go on sale, demand is surging. Fighters are vying for a spot on the historic card, and celebrities are seeking invitations. White says this frenzy validates the event's unique appeal.
"This is like a one-of-one experience. It's going to be incredible," he said, noting that even his 500 employees in Las Vegas are eager to work the event.
For fans watching from home, the main card will be an exclusive streaming affair. White confirmed that the fights "will be on Paramount+" and will not be broadcast on CBS. The event is planned as the centrepiece of a full week of activities in the nation's capital. "We're basically going to take over D.C. that whole week with lots of different things for fight fans," White promised.
The UFC's White House event on June 14 is poised to be a landmark moment, blending high-stakes athletic competition with an unparalleled political and cultural backdrop.
