UFC Plans Historic Event on White House Lawn in 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is making plans for a historic event on the South Lawn of the White House in June 2026, part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. UFC President and CEO Dana White announced that the organization will spend $700,000 to replace the grass on the lawn post-event.

White disclosed the information to Sports Business Journal, emphasizing that hosting an event at such a prestigious venue is unprecedented for UFC. So far, the event is scheduled to take place in June 2026, after being moved from July 4 due to scheduling conflicts with President Trump.

White acknowledged the extensive preparations needed for the event, stating, “This is going to be the most challenging event we have ever done.” Despite his discomfort with outdoor events and stadiums, he expressed his commitment to making the fight happen.

Plans for the event include significant alterations to the South Lawn to accommodate the Octagon and provide “unobstructed views” for cameras, including a sizable arch reminiscent of the St. Louis Arch. Although White didn’t reveal the exact costs, he mentioned that UFC has already spent approximately $20 million on preparations.

The hype surrounding the event has sparked interest among the sport’s biggest fighters, many of whom are keen to participate. As the organization works with the President’s administration to finalize details, weigh-ins for the event are set to take place at the Lincoln Memorial, adding to the event’s historic nature.

Looking ahead, White insists that even without an audience, the significance of fighting on the White House grounds is enough motivation. “I’ll do this with no crowd,” he said. “We’re gonna be on the f—king South Lawn of the White House. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”