UFC stages Freedom 250 event at the White House amid controversy

UFC's Freedom 250 event is being held on the South Lawn of the White House, featuring a lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. The event has drawn significant attention due to its high costs and political implications, especially as it coincides with Donald Trump's 80th birthday. A lawsuit filed this week challenges the event's legality, claiming violations of National Park Service regulations. UFC officials have pushed back against claims that the event is politically motivated, asserting its focus is solely on the sport. The fight card includes seven bouts and is expected to attract a large audience through streaming on Paramount+.

• 2:55 PMYahoo Sports — Politics, Pressure, Polymarket: Inside UFC’s $60M White House Spectacle