The world of mixed martial arts is abuzz with speculation following an extraordinary announcement: the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is reportedly planning a major pay-per-view event set to take place on the hallowed grounds of the White House lawn next year. This unprecedented event is slated to be a highlight of America`s 250th birthday celebrations.
UFC President, Dana White, revealed in a recent interview that the concept, initially announced by President Donald Trump, caught him by surprise. Despite the logistical complexities of staging a professional fight card at such a symbolic location, the idea has generated immense interest, not just from the public, but from the fighters themselves.
According to White, nearly every athlete on the UFC roster has expressed keen interest in competing on this potentially historic card. Among the most prominent names campaigning for a spot are two of the sport`s biggest global superstars: former light heavyweight and current heavyweight champion Jon Jones, and the multi-division champion Conor McGregor. Both fighters, icons in their own right, have publicly signaled their desire to be part of this groundbreaking event in Washington, D.C.
Could Jones and McGregor Headline the `Baddest Card of All Time`?
Speaking with the Nelk Boys, Dana White delved into the specifics of the proposed White House show. While logistical details are still being ironed out, White discussed potential matchups and the overall vision for the event. When asked about his ideal main event for such a monumental occasion, White pointed towards a heavyweight title clash, specifically naming Jon Jones against the formidable British contender Tom Aspinall.
However, the conversation inevitably turned to the possibility of including Conor McGregor on the same bill. White`s response was tantalizingly non-committal yet hopeful: “Could be, anything’s possible.”
White elaborated on McGregor`s unique position in the sport, acknowledging his status as one of the biggest superstars across *all* sports, regardless of his current fighting status. He mused on McGregor`s motivation, given his vast financial success and numerous accomplishments. “He’s gotten to a level of success in his life where he has to, I think, be motivated by something,” White observed. “Now he’s got to find something that truly motivates him to want to come back and do this again.”
Whether the symbolic significance of fighting at the White House is the necessary spark for McGregor`s return remains to be seen. White remained pragmatic, stating, “I don’t know, we’ll see.”
McGregor Fuels Speculation
Adding fuel to the fire, Conor McGregor himself recently hinted at a potential return tied to the White House event. During a press conference for Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) in Florida, where McGregor was present in his capacity as an owner, he addressed questions about his fighting future.
While reaffirming his contractual obligations to the UFC, McGregor dropped a significant hint about his next move. He told the press, “It’s looking like I’m heading to the oval office again so that’s where I’m heading next.” This cryptic statement, referencing the President`s office within the White House, strongly suggests that the potential event is indeed on his radar as a comeback opportunity.
The prospect of seeing two generational talents like Jon Jones and Conor McGregor potentially featured on a fight card held at such a historically significant and globally recognized location is an ambitious and perhaps audacious vision. While details remain scarce and contingent on numerous factors, the mere possibility has ignited excitement within the MMA community for what could truly be, as Dana White himself suggested, one of the `baddest cards of all time`.
Rupert Hartwell