Share to ClassroomWhite House Builds Cage for UFC Fight
The White House is building a big eight-sided fighting cage on its South Lawn. The cage is for a major UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) event. The event is called UFC Freedom 250 and will happen on 14 June 2026. That day is also President Donald Trump's 80th birthday.
The fight marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Other planned events include a car race past the White House and a big national fair. The BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) says the UFC plans to spend about $60million on the show. The BBC says about 4,300 people will watch, mostly soldiers. The Washington Times says there will be 5,000 seats. Another 85,000 free tickets will let fans watch on big screens at a nearby park.
Some people online say the fight card is weak. It only has two title fights. Brazil's Alex Pereira will fight France's Ciryl Gane, and Ilia Topuria will fight Justin Gaethje. The weigh-ins will be at the Lincoln Memorial. Trump has also rebuilt parts of the Rose Garden and pulled down the East Wing to make room for a big ballroom. He has also asked for a 250-foot arch near the Lincoln Memorial. The cage will be taken down after the fight.
