UFC CEO Dana White has stated the company will not return to the White House for another event despite Freedom 250 being an iconic and monumental occasion on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C.
Held as part of the USA’s 250th-year celebrations, the evening would produce some classic performances as Justin Gaethje outgunned Ilia Topuria for the UFC lightweight belt to become the new champion in the main event.
After a fantastic win and a backflip inside the octagon to seal his victory, the former champ celebrated with Donald Trump, who watched the entire 7 bout card cageside.
The 250th-year event drew the attention of the world to a new environment to witness the fights but despite being seen as a spectacular success by the CEO, White insisted that it was just too expensive and logistically difficult to be held there again.
“I can’t afford it. I’ll never do this again,” White was heard saying post-fight.
It is understood Freedom 250 cost approximately $60 million, and the sheer difficulty of logistics such as construction, security and weather during the course of the evening meant the event was an extraordinary challenge to put on.
But the UFC boss insisted it was a huge success and revealed merchandise, new subscribers and fan attendance had all been incredible, making the event worthwhile.
The UFC will now look forward to heading back to Las Vegas for UFC 329 next month, and it is hoped this event will mark the long-awaited return of Conor McGregor, after 5 years away from competition.
