DOJ defends UFC Freedom 250 event amid legal challenges

The U.S. federal government is contesting a lawsuit that seeks to stop the UFC Freedom 250 event planned for Sunday on the South Lawn of the White House. The Department of Justice argues the lawsuit, filed by the Public Integrity Project on behalf of two Virginia residents, is untimely and fails to meet legal standards. The plaintiffs claim violations of National Park Service regulations and cite aesthetic concerns regarding the venue's appearance. The DOJ counters that the event's planning has been underway for a year and asserts that public interest does not favor halting it. A pre-fight press conference is scheduled for Friday.

• 2:41 PMYahoo Sports — DOJ Defends UFC Freedom 250 As Clock Ticks on Effort to Stop Event