White House hosts UFC event amid World Cup and NBA Finals

The United States is experiencing an unusually packed sports week, with the FIFA World Cup underway, the NBA Finals ongoing, and a special UFC event, Freedom 250, scheduled at the White House. The event, marking the USA's 80th birthday, kicks off early Monday morning Croatian time, featuring a lightweight title fight between champion Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.

Security around the White House is described as immense and extraordinary, heightened by the logistics of hosting a major sporting event. Police officials noted that the White House has never handled such a large volume of equipment and personnel. The security apparatus includes the Secret Service, White House Military Office, federal police, federal agencies, counter-terrorism units, aerial surveillance, and access control units. Every piece of equipment underwent meticulous inspection, with even the origin of simple iron bars being investigated.

Despite the high-security preparations, the event's setup appeared to be in its early stages just two days prior. Trucks were still delivering necessary equipment, and the stage was not yet fully prepared. However, locals in Washington indicated that last-minute preparations are typical for major events in the capital, with organization usually concluding smoothly.

The event is expected to host 4,000 attendees, including 1,200 invited soldiers. Recent severe weather in Washington, including heavy rain and thunderstorms, has raised questions about the event's feasibility, as it is an outdoor production. UFC President Dana White, however, expressed determination that the event will proceed regardless of the weather conditions.

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Listen to me, this event will take place no matter what. Even if it rains, even if it snows, we will have fights. I'm already sick of the weather forecast stories.