UFC CEO Dana White has expressed concerns about an unexpected issue plaguing the upcoming fight at the White House: gnats. The event, scheduled for June 14, 2026, coincides with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday and is part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.
White shared his worries during a recent appearance on the Boardroom Talks podcast. He recounted a dinner at the Rose Garden with Trump, where he was struck by the number of gnats flying around. "The amount of gnats that were flying around. I'm like, 'Holy shit,'" White said.
Immediately after the dinner, White contacted his production head to discuss the "gnat situation." He noted that the lighting grid used to illuminate the octagon could attract other insects, such as moths and "God knows what else," which fighters would then have to contend with during the match.
"These are all the things I think about," White said. "In your mouth, in your nose, while you're trying to fight?" He suggested that wind might help, as gnats struggle in breezy conditions. However, he admitted, "These are all the little details that we have to think about. That's why I don't like fighting outside, ever."
White's comments come as preparations intensify for the historic event. Trump had previously announced plans to build a facility on the South Lawn capable of holding 25,000 spectators. According to NBC News, the current plan involves about 4,000 attendees at the White House, with up to 85,000 more watching via screens at the Ellipse.
The fight is part of a broader celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary, but the insect problem has become a focal point for White. He has not yet revealed a specific solution, but fans may play a role in mitigating the issue.
Watch the full Boardroom Talks interview with White below for more details on the upcoming event and his concerns.
