In a surprising move, UFC middleweight star Sean Strickland has publicly expressed his disinterest in a historic fighting event planned for the White House lawn, despite his past support for former President Donald Trump.
Strickland's Critique of Exclusive Event
During a recent livestream with controversial streamer Adin Ross, Strickland discussed the proposed UFC event at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The fighter echoed concerns about performing "in front of billionaires" and emphasized the need for fan inclusion.
"I think I’d want to do the White House... if there was some kind of inclusion for fans," Strickland explained. "So if there was some kind of inclusion for fans, it’d be more — but like, just to go hang out with the fucking Epstein list? I’m good, dog. I’m good, dude."
Details of the Planned White House UFC Event
The unprecedented event is scheduled for June 14, 2026, on the South Lawn. It will serve as part of America's 250th-anniversary celebrations, coinciding with both Flag Day and former President Trump's 80th birthday. The idea was first promoted by Trump during the summer.
However, attendance figures have been significantly scaled back. UFC President Dana White revealed in a September interview with Fox News that security concerns would limit seating to approximately 5,000 spectators. This marks a drastic reduction from Trump's initial estimate of up to 25,000 attendees.
A Complicated Political Alignment
Strickland's stance highlights a complex relationship with the former president he once backed. Despite posing for a photo with Trump after his UFC 302 victory in June 2024 and seemingly supporting an unconstitutional third term for Trump in a recent social media post, Strickland has become increasingly critical.
His criticisms have focused heavily on foreign policy. In February, he challenged Trump's proposal for the U.S. to take control of Gaza and relocate Palestinians. "Man if Trump keeps this bs up I’m about to start waving a Palestinian flag... American cities are shitholes and you wanna go spend billions on this dumpster fire.. Did we make a mistake?! This ain’t America first.." he wrote on X.
In July, Strickland drew a "line in the sand," stating he would vote for a Democratic candidate over any Republican backed by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). He also urged Trump in June not to involve America in the Israel-Iran conflict.
The fighter's latest comments regarding the White House UFC event underscore a prioritization of his fanbase and personal principles over political spectacle, setting the stage for continued debate as the 2026 event approaches.
