UFC Freedom 250 live at the White House: Ilia Topuria v Justin Gaethje

President Donald Trump is hosting a UFC fight night on the White House grounds, where organizers are hoping to avoid the worst of a severe weather threat. The event is part of programming for America’s 250th anniversary and also falls on the president’s 80th birthday.

Trump is seated below a huge structure called the “Claw,” which was erected on the South Lawn around a UFC “Octagon.” A 12-jet flyover punctuated Trump’s entrance alongside UFC CEO Dana White.

While the event has generated enthusiasm among MAGA allies and supporters, it’s drawn rebukes from Trump critics and skepticism from some Republicans. Protesters rallied outside the White House today while attendees flocked into the surrounding fan zones and watch party.

It’s been an eventful day for the president, who earlier announced an agreement had been reached with Iran after weeks of diplomatic efforts. He’ll head to the G7 summit immediately after the fights.

The main card, headlined by Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje, gets underway at around 12.20pm NZT.

– CNN

President Trump is in attendance with his wife Melania.
Photo: KENT NISHIMURA

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