A UFC Spectacle Planned for America’s 250th Anniversary
US President Donald Trump revealed in July his intention to host a UFC event in front of the White House as part of the “America 250” celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary. Irish MMA icon Conor McGregor has expressed interest in joining the card—but only if his eye-watering conditions are met.
McGregor’s Price Tag: $100M and 100 “Golden Visas”
McGregor has reportedly requested a $100 million purse to headline the Washington, D.C., event. Alongside the financial demand, he also insisted on 100 US “Golden Visas” for himself, family, and close associates. These visas are linked to the Trump administration’s Gold Card immigration initiative, recently adjusted to allow residency with a $1 million investment instead of $5 million.
The proposed matchup pits McGregor against longtime UFC rival Michael Chandler. Chandler, appearing on Fox News last week, confirmed he would welcome the opportunity. McGregor, however, hasn’t fought since a devastating leg injury against Dustin Poirier in 2021 and most recently withdrew from UFC 303 in 2024 due to injury setbacks.
Dana White’s Ambitious Vision
UFC President Dana White has already outlined his vision for the event. He described plans for a massive staging setup featuring a dramatic lighting arch, using both the White House and Washington Monument as striking backdrops for fans watching the fight.
The promotion intends to relocate its annual International Fight Week from Las Vegas to Washington, D.C., with an expected live audience of more than 85,000. Fans would watch on big screens from President’s Park, creating an atmosphere never before seen in MMA history.
Biggest Event in UFC History?
The “America 250” UFC show is being billed as potentially the largest event in the sport’s history. Still, questions remain over whether parent company TKO will approve such a massive payout for McGregor, who has struggled to maintain consistent form in recent years.
Negotiations between McGregor, Chandler, UFC executives, and the US government are still in the early stages. With months left before the final card is assembled, the world will be watching to see whether McGregor’s demands are met—and if the White House fight will truly become a reality.