Trump turns White House into octagon for $60M UFC event; CEO says 'never again'

The White House South Lawn was dramatically transformed into a mixed martial arts arena for "UFC Freedom 250," an unprecedented event celebrating President Donald Trump's 80th birthday and the United States' 250th anniversary. The $60 million spectacle, organized by UFC, featured seven intense fights within an octagon structure dubbed "The Claw."

An estimated 200,000 fans gathered on the surrounding lawns to watch the fights on large screens, creating a massive viewing party. The event's scale was so significant that it prompted a rescheduling of the G7 summit, allowing President Trump to attend the full card before departing for France.

However, the lavish event drew criticism. While the White House maintained that UFC fully funded the $60 million cost, detractors questioned the timing and appropriateness of a large-scale entertainment event amidst economic inflation and international tensions. Some critics derided it as a "violent show in the White House backyard."

Despite the controversy and the event's high profile, UFC CEO Dana White expressed that he would not repeat the experience. At the post-event press conference, White humorously and emphatically stated he "couldn't afford" to host another similar event at the White House, calling it a unique, once-in-a-lifetime historical experience that was logistically overwhelming.

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I can't afford it! Absolutely f***ing not, never again!