The UFC is set to host an unprecedented fight card at the White House this week, part of celebrations for 250 years of the United States. However, the confirmed fights have drawn a disappointed reaction from many fans, despite promises of the greatest card in history with multiple title bouts.
The main event features a lightweight title unification between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. While Topuria is a generational talent, Gaethje is a heavy underdog, and many fans would have preferred a bout with Arman Tsarukyan or Islam Makhachev. Grade: C+
Alex Pereira faces Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight belt. This fight marks Pereira's heavyweight debut and a chance to become the UFC's first three-weight champion, though a dream showdown with Jon Jones was overlooked. Grade: B
Sean O'Malley takes on Aiemann Zahabi in a bantamweight clash. O'Malley is a big name, but a fight with Cory Sandhagen or Petr Yan would have been more compelling. Grade: C
Michael Chandler meets Carlos Ruffy in a guaranteed firework display. Chandler deserved a bout with Conor McGregor, but the UFC may be saving McGregor for International Fight Week. Grade: B-
Bo Nickal faces Kyle Daukaus in a middleweight bout that lacks excitement. Nickal is a rising star, but fans have soured on him, while Daukaus fails to generate interest. Grade: D+
