UFC CEO Dana White unveiled a six-fight slate for Freedom Fights 250 at the White House on June 14, headlined by lightweight champion Ilia Topuria facing interim champion Justin Gaethje. The card also features Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title. Twelve fighters won the White House sweepstakes, but notable absentees include Jon Jones and Conor McGregor.

ESPN analysts questioned whether this lineup ranks among the UFC's best ever, with Brett Okamoto noting it falls short compared to historic cards featuring multiple title fights. While Topuria's presence is strong, the absence of bigger names like Jones or McGregor and the lack of women's title fights drew criticism. Analysts described the card as "fine" but "underwhelming" compared to expectations.

The card's composition reveals the UFC's current state, with analysts pointing to a lack of mainstream stars beyond aging veterans. With McGregor inactive for five years and Jones absent from the lineup, the promotion faces challenges in star power despite business success. The event highlights both the depth of current talent and the difficulty in creating new crossover superstars.