President Donald Trump is reportedly thrilled about hosting the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) at the White House for his birthday this weekend, an event he conceptualized as a personal gift. Beyond the fights, the gathering is also shaping up to be a prime opportunity for donors and lobbyists.
While the guest list of celebrities remains uncertain pending email invitations, Trump's aides anticipate a significant turnout of donors. The UFC is covering the substantial cost of the event, estimated at $60 million, but is also offering sponsorship packages upwards of $1 million that include ringside seats. These packages are seen by Washington political consulting firms as a valuable way for executives and companies to gain access to Trump, given the limited avenues currently available.
Requests for these sponsorships have surged, alongside queries from administration officials and members of Congress seeking entry to the event, which is reportedly oversubscribed. President Trump has personal control over the majority of seats and is reportedly curating the attendee list. The most coveted spots are those under "the Claw," a massive 92-foot arch structure used for lights and sound, nicknamed by the White House but officially called a "beta tent."
UFC President Dana White and Ari Emanuel, chair of the UFC's parent company, will control 700 seats, while Trump will oversee approximately 1,200. This event offers a new avenue for engagement compared to the less frequent $1 million "candlelight dinners" hosted by Trump's super PAC, MAGA Inc., which previously provided direct access. Companies that missed out on those fundraising opportunities are now being advised to consider sponsoring the UFC event.
A White House official stated they are not involved in sponsorship discussions, directing inquiries to the UFC. Some of the UFC's usual sponsors, such as Meta, have ongoing business interests before the federal government. However, White House spokesperson David Ingle denied any conflicts of interest, calling reports of lobbying attempts "irresponsible" and aimed at fabricating issues.
The event won't feature some of the biggest UFC stars, as attempts to book former champions Jon Jones and Conor McGregor reportedly fell through. McGregor's potential participation was complicated by him not being in an anti-doping testing pool long enough, and Trump reportedly wished to avoid appearing to grant favors. McGregor also has a history of civil liability and controversial public statements.
Trump has expressed a desire to keep the "Claw" structure on the South Lawn post-event, but logistical issues, including its placement on the Marine One landing zone, make this unlikely. Meanwhile, reports suggest Trump may soon receive a new presidential aircraft, a refitted former Qatari royal family plane, expected to enter service in early July.
