White House builds temporary arena for UFC event June 14

Construction has begun on the South Lawn of the White House for a temporary arena to host a UFC event on June 14. The "UFC Freedom 250" will coincide with Flag Day, the nation's 250th anniversary, and President Donald Trump's 80th birthday.

The event features a seven-fight card, including two championship bouts. Ilia Topuria will defend the lightweight title against Justin Gaethje, and Alex Pereira will face Ciryl Gane for an interim heavyweight championship. Other scheduled fights include Sean O'Malley versus Aiemann Zahabi, Michael Chandler versus Mauricio Ruffy, Kyle Daukaus versus Bo Nickal, Steve Garcia versus Diego Lopes, and Josh Hokit versus Derrick Lewis. UFC President Dana White stated he aimed for a lineup reflecting America's diversity of immigrant backgrounds.

The octagonal cage is part of a large temporary structure with patriotic designs. Officials state the arena will seat between 4,000 and 5,000 spectators. A separate fan festival on the nearby Ellipse grounds is planned, with large screens expected to accommodate tens of thousands more viewers. Tickets are not for sale but are being distributed by the White House, the UFC, and its parent company, with a portion...