The UFC's historic event at the White House has added another surprise just days before fight night. UFC president Dana White confirmed that Nitro Circus star Travis Pastrana will perform a dirt bike backflip on the South Lawn during UFC Freedom 250, which is set to take place on Sunday evening. The event will also fall on President Donald Trump's 80th birthday, making it one of the most talked-about UFC shows in recent memory.
Around 4,000 guests are expected to attend the event, which will feature an octagon built on the White House South Lawn. While fans have already been debating the unusual venue, the announcement of Travis Pastrana's stunt has brought even more attention to the show. At the same time, newly revealed UFC ring girl outfits have sparked another round of reactions online.
Dana White Reveals How Travis Pastrana Secured White House Stunt
Dana White shared that Travis Pastrana first suggested the idea during a Power Slap event. In a video call, Dana White recalled Pastrana telling him, "You grabbed me at Power Slap and said, 'I want to do a backflip on the South Lawn of the White House.'" White replied, "Interesting. All right, let me see what I can do."
What began as a bold suggestion eventually received approval from event organizers. As a result, Pastrana will now be part of what UFC officials view as one of the promotion's biggest events ever.
Travis Pastrana Brings Nitro Circus Action to UFC Freedom 250
Travis Pastrana is well known for performing risky motorcycle stunts throughout his career. Most recently, he drew attention after riding a dirt bike through a Las Vegas casino to promote the upcoming Nitro Circus tour. Even so, performing a backflip at the White House is expected to create even bigger headlines and attract worldwide interest.
UFC Ring Girls Outfits Divide Fans Before Fight Night
The event has already generated strong opinions, and the latest discussion centers on the outfits planned for UFC ring girls. Instead of the traditional red or black uniforms, Chrissy Blair and Red Dela Cruz modeled new red, white and blue outfits inspired by the American flag. The designs were created as part of America's Semiquincentennial celebrations. The outfits will be worn during ceremonial weigh-ins and on fight night.
Donald Trump Event Expected to Draw Thousands
About 4,000 guests are expected at the White House event. Reports say ringside seats are linked to sponsorships worth more than $1 million. Donald Trump personally controls 1,000 tickets, while Dana White and Ari Emanuel each hold 200. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles has also been helping select attendees. According to TKO Group Holdings president Mark Shapiro, the event is expected to cost about $60 million, with UFC covering most of the expense.
