UFC Octagon cage construction underway at White House for Trump's 80th birthday celebration

An Octagon cage, the signature ring for Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) mixed martial arts bouts, is being constructed on the Ellipse park in front of the White House. The temporary arena is being erected to host a special UFC event celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 80th birthday of former President Donald Trump.

The construction site, located directly in front of the White House's West Wing where the Oval Office is situated, features steel supports and a large arched structure adorned with lights. A large screen is also being set up on the South Lawn to broadcast the matches live. Trump had previously announced plans for a 5,000-seat arena to be built just outside the White House entrance.

Officials confirmed that the UFC is bearing the full cost of the event, assuring that "no national funds are being used." The structure is temporary and will be removed after the matches conclude. Reports indicate that the U.S. Department of Defense is recruiting military personnel, specifically junior officers and non-commissioned officers, to attend the event.

Eligibility for attendance includes meeting physical fitness standards, and attendees are required to wear a short-sleeved dress uniform. However, the Department of Defense will not cover travel or accommodation expenses for the selected service members. The article also notes unrelated construction work at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool for the nation's anniversary.

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No national funds are being used.