UFC Freedom 250 Begins with Anthem on White House Lawn

A historic mixed martial arts event was held on the White House South Lawn on Sunday, June 14, featuring a patriotic opening ceremony headlined by country music star Zac Brown. The UFC Freedom 250 event, the first major professional sporting event held at the executive residence, drew a crowd of thousands and was attended by President Donald Trump and UFC CEO Dana White.

Brown performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" backed by the United States Marine Band and the combined Armed Forces Chorus. The rendition culminated in a joint military flyover by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as Brown sang the anthem's final notes. The event coincided with Flag Day and was tied to celebrations for the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. It also marked President Trump's 80th birthday.

The temporary venue on the South Lawn featured a full-size Octagon and seating for approximately 4,000 invited guests, with reports indicating the audience was composed largely of active-duty service members. Before the fights, Trump and White entered the arena area after walking from the Oval Office, with the Marine Band playing "Hail to the Chief."

Brown's participation had drawn some...