politics
UFC Octagon Construction Begins on White House South Lawn for June 14 Event
Workers have started building a temporary octagon cage and seating on the South Lawn for a UFC card scheduled for June 14. The event coincides with Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and forms part of the America 250 anniversary celebrations.
May 26, 3:18 PM·1m read2 sources
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Construction crews began assembling an octagon-shaped cage and surrounding scaffolding on the White House South Lawn on May 26. The structure will host the UFC Freedom Fights 250 card scheduled for June 14. The event will feature a lightweight title bout between champion Ilia Topuria and interim champion Justin Gaethje, plus an interim heavyweight title fight between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane.
Four additional bouts are also planned.
Trump has said the South Lawn and nearby Ellipse will accommodate up to 100,000 spectators. The main cage area will include 4,000 to 5,000 seats, with additional large screens set up on the Ellipse for free viewing. ” UFC has indicated it will distribute as many as 85,000 free tickets.
The June 14 date marks both Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. Organizers have positioned the card as part of nationwide America 250 commemorations marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Additional planned events include an IndyCar race passing the White House and the Great American State Fair on the National Mall.
Weigh-ins are scheduled at the Lincoln Memorial. " — President Donald Trump, May 2026 (ABC News) Other White House construction projects under the current administration include modifications to the Rose Garden, new flagpoles, and renovations to interior rooms.
