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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Joe Sommerlad

Trump wants UFC ‘claw’ to become permanent fixture on the White House lawn

  • President Donald Trump has suggested that 'The Claw,' a large UFC arena being erected in front of the White House for a 'Freedom 250' celebration, could remain permanently, comparing its potential longevity to that of the Eiffel Tower.
  • The octagon-shaped arena will host a mixed-martial arts event on June 14, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. founding and Trump's 80th birthday, featuring fighters like Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, and Alex Pereira.
  • Approximately 5,000 spectators, including VIPs and military members, are expected to attend the event in person, with additional viewers watching on large screens at Washington’s Ellipse Park.
  • White House spokesman Davis Ingle stated the event will be a historic triumph, despite it occurring during a challenging period in Trump’s second term, marked by unresolved peace terms with Iran and public concerns over inflation.
  • Several artists, including Morris Day and The Time, Young MC, Martina McBride, and Bret Michaels, have withdrawn from the 'Freedom 250' project, claiming they were misled about its political nature, leading Trump to pledge to headline the event himself.

IN FULL

Trump says the giant UFC arena set up outside the White House could stay up forever

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