UFC Freedom 250 takes place this evening in a history-making event at the White House in Washington, DC. It is the first-ever combat sports event to be held at the President's residence since Theodore Roosevelt organized boxing matches during his time in office.
Why Is It on a Sunday?
UFC cards often take place on Saturday nights, but this is a very special exception. The move has been orchestrated by good friends Dana White, the promotion's president, and Donald Trump, President of the United States. UFC Freedom 250 is set to take place on the White House's South Lawn as part of the 'Flag Day' celebrations on June 14, marking 250 years of American independence. Coincidentally, it is also Trump's 80th birthday.
Controversy Surrounding the Event
Tonight's card has faced plenty of controversy, with a lawsuit filed and dismissed. The Public Integrity Project claimed that it was a 'profound misuse of sacred national monuments for private gain.'
The Fight Card
The President will celebrate with a seven-fight supercard that sees two title fights top the bill. Lightweight champion Ilia Topuria defends his belt against the interim champion Justin Gaethje, with the pair going toe-to-toe to unify the championship. The co-main event sees Ciryl Gane, who poked Tom Aspinall in the eye last year, fight Alex Pereira for the interim heavyweight title. Heavyweight fighter Derrick Lewis is also involved at Trump's personal request.
