The UFC will host its first professional sporting event on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14, marking a historic moment for mixed martial arts. The event, which will be simulcast on CBS and Paramount+, will feature approximately 6-7 fights according to TKO Group CEO Ari Emanuel. UFC CEO Dana White has called it a "one-of-one event" that could become the most-watched UFC event ever.

White credits President Donald Trump with the idea, which was first teased in July 2025 during America's 250th birthday celebration. The UFC is handling all costs, including $700,000-$1 million to replace the South Lawn grass afterward. No taxpayer money will be used. The event will accommodate about 5,000 spectators on the South Lawn, with space for another 80,000 fans at the nearby Ellipse. Tickets will be comped to military members rather than sold.

The District of Columbia Combat Sports Commission will serve as the sanctioning body, the same organization that oversees all boxing and MMA events in the area. White and his matchmaking team, including chief financial officer Hunter Campbell and matchmakers Sean Shelby and Mick Maynard, are finalizing the card. The UFC has held two previous events in Washington at Capital One Arena, but this outdoor White House setting presents unprecedented logistical challenges.