Construction of the White House UFC fighting cage is in full swing ahead of next month’s anniversary event.
Work is underway on the South Lawn, where the cage is being assembled ahead of a bout night billed as part of the celebrations for 250 years of American Independence.
The historic event is scheduled for June 14, a date that also falls on President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.
Organizers confirmed the build had started in a post on the official UFC X page, writing: “Construction has begun at the White House for UFC Freedom 250 #UFCWhiteHouse.”
Photos and video from the site show crews erecting a cage setup complete with large arches, a stage and extensive seating expected to accommodate thousands of spectators for the ticketed event.
Reports claim the UFC is investing $60 million into staging the night, though tickets are expected to be given away at no cost.
UFC president Dana White previously outlined how a massive crowd could be accommodated around the grounds, saying: “The way that the White House is laid out, you’ve got the White House, you’ve got the South Lawn, and then there’s a road, and then the Ellipse.
“There’s a park that’s right there. We’re gonna be ticketing 85,000 people in the Ellipse, and the tickets are free, and we’ll announce how we’re gonna be giving them away soon.
“But you should plan on going to Washington DC for this event.”
While the figure of $60 million has been widely reported, TKO chief operating officer Mark Shapiro suggested the final cost could rise beyond that estimate.
He previously said on an earnings call: “By the time we get done, all is said and done with the event, what we play the fighters and the fan fest we’re gonna have, that could move north.
Construction has begun at the White House for UFC Freedom 250 🇺🇸 #UFCWhiteHouse
SUNDAY | June 14 on @paramountplus pic.twitter.com/ImZK1RgOY1
— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) May 26, 2026
“It’s definitely not moving south – it could move north.”
Online reaction to the images of the cage taking shape has been divided, with some criticizing the look and symbolism of the setup.
“Trump has literally turned the White House into a circus!” Said one X user.
While another added: “This is grotesque.”
Others have defended the plan, with one person writing: “Why are so many people mad about this!? This is the most awesome 2026 thing I’ve seen! Amazing move by the Whitehouse, much respect!”
The card is expected to be topped by two headline fights: Brazil’s Alex Pereira facing France’s Ciryl Gane, and Ilia Topuria meeting Justin Gaethje.