UPDATE: UFC CEO Dana White has just confirmed a groundbreaking UFC fight night will take place at the White House on July 4, 2024, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. In a statement to The Associated Press, White declared, “It’s absolutely going to happen,” emphasizing the historic significance of the event.
The fight night is expected to draw upwards of 20,000 spectators to the White House grounds, transforming the iconic venue into a vibrant arena for mixed martial arts fans. White is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump and his daughter, Ivanka Trump, later this month to discuss logistics for this unprecedented event.
The UFC’s collaboration with the White House marks a significant cultural moment, as it intertwines sports with American heritage. “Think about that, the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the UFC will be on the White House south lawn live on CBS,” White added, highlighting the partnership’s potential to captivate audiences nationwide.
This announcement follows President Trump’s previous remarks about hosting a UFC match on the White House grounds, signaling a desire to celebrate America’s independence with a spectacular display of athleticism and entertainment. The event is set to air live, bringing a unique spectacle to sports fans and celebrating a milestone in U.S. history.
In addition to the fight night, White discussed the UFC’s new broadcasting agreement with Paramount, a seven-year deal worth $7.7 billion that will elevate the promotion’s visibility and reach. This agreement will see all U.S. cards broadcast on Paramount+ and select events simulcast on CBS, providing fans more access than ever before.
The UFC is in a transformative phase, moving away from traditional pay-per-view models, which could significantly impact fighter compensation. White stated, “It will affect fighter pay, big time,” reflecting optimism about the potential financial growth for athletes involved.
Boxer Jake Paul weighed in on the new revenue model, suggesting it would provide fighters with a clearer understanding of their worth. “Every fighter in the UFC now has a clear picture of what the revenue is…no more PPV excuses,” he commented, urging fighters to recognize their value in this evolving landscape.
As the UFC prepares for its highly anticipated White House event, fans are eager to learn more about potential matchups. White confirmed that UFC matchmakers are currently strategizing for an impactful debut card on Paramount, although specifics on the main event remain under wraps.
This historic UFC fight night at the White House represents not only a merging of sports and national celebration but also a pivotal moment for the UFC as it transitions into a new broadcasting era. As White himself stated, “This is a 1-of-1 event,” underscoring the uniqueness of this occasion.
Stay tuned for further updates as details unfold regarding matchups and ticket information for this landmark event!
