Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje to highlight UFC event at White House

Field Level Media|published: Sun 8th March, 14:02 2026

Nov 16, 2024; New York, NY, USA; UFC CEO Dana White (left) talks to President-elect Donald Trump ringside during UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje will vie for the lightweight title at UFC Freedom Fights 250, believed to be the first pro sporting event ever held at the White House.

The June 14 fight card will feature six bouts, including Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane competing for the interim heavyweight title. With a win, Pereira would become the first three-division champion in UFC history.

The card was revealed Saturday night during UFC 326 in Las Vegas.

UFC head Dana White announced Freedom Fights 250 last August after meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House. It is one of many events planned as part of the United States' 250th birthday celebration this year.

The other fights feature Bo Nickal, a former NCAA wrestling champion at Penn State, against Kyle Daukaus, as well as Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia, Sean O'Malley vs. Aiemann Zahabi, and Michael Chandler vs. Mauricio Ruffy.

The event will be streamed live by Paramount+.

--Field Level Media

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