UFC president Dana White has emphatically dismissed rumours that Conor McGregor will face Colby Covington at the upcoming White House event, labelling the speculation as "total BS". The unprecedented UFC card is scheduled for 14 June on the South Lawn, with White confirming that matchmaking discussions will conclude imminently.
White House Fight Card Speculation
Speculation has been rife about the match-ups for the historic UFC event at the White House, with US president Donald Trump previously claiming there would be "eight or nine championship fights". However, TKO CEO Ari Emanuel later suggested a more realistic figure of six to seven bouts. The confusion has fuelled numerous rumours, including one suggesting McGregor versus Covington as the main event.
Social Media Rumour Debunked
The rumour gained traction when an Instagram account posted a mock-up image of McGregor and Covington facing off in front of the White House, claiming the fight was "highly possible". Dana White quickly intervened in the comments, writing: "Total BS....... White House matchmaking meeting is tomorrow. Mick Maynard flying in tomorrow for it. We will have fights dialed in by this weekend."
McGregor's Uncertain Status
Conor McGregor, a former dual-weight UFC champion, has not fought since 2021 due to a broken leg. The Irish fighter was scheduled to return against Michael Chandler in 2024 but withdrew citing a broken toe. Over the past decade, McGregor has competed only four times in the UFC, with a record of 1-3, and has faced numerous legal issues. Despite calling for a spot on the White House card, White has been non-committal about his involvement.
Covington's Recent Form
Colby Covington, a former interim UFC welterweight champion, has seen his form decline in recent years, with a record of 2-4 since late 2019. His last bout was a stoppage loss to Joaquin Buckley in December 2024. Like McGregor, Covington's participation in the White House event remains uncertain.
Event Details and Attendance
While the fight card is yet to be confirmed, other details about the White House event have emerged. TKO boss Ari Emanuel stated last week that attendance would be around 3,000-4,000, with additional areas for viewing, and the event will be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+. In contrast, Donald Trump had previously claimed the arena would seat 5,000-6,000 people, with 100,000 more watching on large screens outside.
Championship Fight Drought
The speculation about the White House card is heightened by a current drought in UFC championship fights. Only two title fights have occurred in 2026 so far: an interim lightweight bout and a featherweight defence. Max Holloway is scheduled to defend the "Baddest Motherf*****" belt in March, but this is not a regular divisional title. No other champions are currently booked to defend their titles, lending credence to Trump's claim that White is holding back fights for the June event.
High-Profile Absences
Other notable fighters, such as Jon Jones, have also expressed interest in the White House card, but White has been cautious about their involvement due to past issues. Jones has a history of legal problems and failed drug tests, leading White to question his reliability. The UFC president's comments suggest a careful approach to selecting fighters for this high-profile event.
As the weekend approaches, fans and analysts await the official announcement of the White House fight card, with Dana White's promise of clarity expected to end the rampant speculation.
