UFC Whitehouse – who will be on the card?

In a dramatic reveal during his “Salute to America” speech in Iowa on July 3, 2025, former President Donald Trump shared plans for a UFC Whitehouse event to commemorate America’s 250th Independence Day in 2026. The celebration, dubbed “America 250,” is expected to feature not only a full UFC fight card—drawing an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 fans—but also amateur bouts held throughout the expansive White House grounds.

Trump emphasized the seriousness of the event, and his press secretary confirmed the plans are “dead serious.” UFC President Dana White, a long-time Trump ally, has expressed full support for the idea, signaling that plans are already in motion for what could be one of the most unique combat sports events in history.

Who’s Likely to Fight on the UFC Whitehouse Card?

Conor McGregor

Conor “The Notorious” McGregor quickly expressed interest in fighting on the historic card. Following the announcement, McGregor stated he’d be “honored” to fight on the White House lawn. Despite a long layoff since his leg injury at UFC 264 in July 2021, he remains active in training and has already proposed a matchup with Michael Chandler for the event. McGregor even shared an AI-generated mockup of the bout taking place on the White House lawn, signaling genuine excitement for the opportunity.

Jon Jones

Jon “Bones” Jones also hinted at participating in the event. The reigning UFC heavyweight champion, who has been sidelined due to injury, posted on social media shortly after the announcement, writing, “Fighting at the White House?”—leaving fans and analysts speculating about a potential return. Given Jones’ past personal rapport with Donald Trump and his legendary status in the UFC, his inclusion would add historic weight to the card.

Other Potential Matchups

Several other fighters are likely to be considered for this once-in-a-lifetime event:

Michael Chandler: Already tied to McGregor in promotional materials, Chandler is an obvious candidate if McGregor is on the card.
Justin Gaethje: Known for his fan-friendly fighting style and past support for Trump, Gaethje could be tapped for a major bout.
Colby Covington: A vocal Trump supporter and top welterweight contender, Covington’s inclusion would be thematically fitting and would bring high-profile energy to the lineup.
Dricus du Plessis: The current middleweight champion and vocal supporter of Trump, du Plessis could represent international star power on the card.

The UFC may also feature amateur fights, rising prospects, and even possible cross-promotion or celebrity bouts, making this an event tailored for spectacle and mainstream attention.

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Why This Event Could Be Historic?

This would be the first professional sporting event of this scale ever held on the White House grounds. The “America 250” initiative includes a wide range of cultural celebrations, but a live UFC event—broadcast globally—would be the centerpiece of the festivities. With Trump and Dana White personally backing the plan, the logistical and political support appears strong.

The spectacle combines patriotism, sports entertainment, and political symbolism in a way never seen before. The symbolic value of top-tier fighters competing on one of the world’s most iconic lawns is sure to attract widespread attention—not just from MMA fans but from viewers across the political and cultural spectrum.