Big Names Skip the White House UFC Showdown

Plenty of Hollywood stars and athletes got invites to the first-ever UFC fight night at the White House lawn, including Adam Sandler and Mario Lopez. Both sent their regrets— Lopez because he’s busy filming a holiday movie, Sandler without an explanation. But some big names might still show up, like Tom Brady and Dwayne Johnson, while others like Adin Ross changed their minds after considering big money offers. The event isn’t just about the fights— it’s turning into a test of who’s willing to step into the president’s circle for a flashy spectacle. This won’t be your average pay-per-view night. The UFC is building a temporary 4, 000-seat arena right on the South Lawn, complete with a full-sized Octagon, giant screens, and a special lighting rig called “The Claw. ” Outside, over 75, 000 fans are expected to crowd the Ellipse Park for free screenings of the fights. But the real draw is the invite-only main event on the White House grounds, where high-profile guests will watch the lightweight and interim heavyweight title fights. For those with deep pockets, a $1. 5 million package gets you perks like VIP seating, a private concert, and ringside seats for an upcoming UFC event.The price tag for this show is staggering— around $60 million to cover fighters, construction, and production. The UFC expects to lose $30 million on it, but the CEO calls it “the greatest marketing move ever” and a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. ” Even the grass damage on the lawn has a price tag— about $700, 000 to restore it afterward. What’s less clear? Who pays for security, crowd control, and traffic when the government says no taxpayer money is being used. Past big events like the Super Bowl racked up millions in security costs— and that didn’t even happen at the White House. The fights will air live on Paramount+ starting at 8 p. m. on June 14, but if you want a free view, just head to the Ellipse. For everyone else, it’s a subscription away. Still, many aren’t sold on the idea. UFC commentator Joe Rogan, who once supported the president, now calls it a “weird” distraction during wartime. Critics argue that spending millions on a spectacle while Americans face real crises sends the wrong message. Others question how this lines up with the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations. What does a cage fight have to do with national pride anyway?