The One Thing That Could Derail UFC at the White House

Dana White has always been wary of hosting outdoor events due to the myriad weather-related issues that could disrupt a show. However, he's pulling out all the stops to prepare for every contingency ahead of the UFC White House Fight Night on June 14.

The event will take place on the South Lawn of the White House, with the UFC constructing an elaborate setup around and above the Octagon to minimize weather interference. Despite these preparations, White revealed there's only one scenario that could potentially delay — and hopefully not cancel — the fights.

"We're fighting through bad weather," White stated during an appearance on Adin Ross's stream. "If it snows, damn it, we're fighting. We're fighting. Nothing is stopping this show that night — it can rain, there can be a storm… The only thing is lightning. Then we'll have to wait. We'll wait out the storm and then we'll have the fight."

Given that the event is in June, predicting the weather in Washington D.C. is notoriously difficult.

White admits that the stress surrounding these potential risks is precisely why he has historically avoided serious consideration of outdoor UFC events.

However, the unique nature of the UFC White House Fight Night has changed his stance, though he'll remain on edge until the first bell rings on June 14.

"Look, that's exactly why I don't like doing things outdoors," White explained. "Obviously, rain will be an issue. Strong winds too. If it's humid and there are insects. All these things are factors you have to consider when doing an outdoor event.

But we'll get through all of it. If any of these things happen — it doesn't matter, we'll keep going. As I said, if it snows, damn it — we'll still go on. The only thing that can truly stop us is lightning."

Preparations for the UFC White House event are commencing much earlier than typical fight nights.

White shared that Craig Borsari, UFC's Executive Vice President of Production, has practically relocated to Washington D.C. to begin setting up the stage on the White House South Lawn in the coming weeks.

"We're actually starting preparations at the White House in May," White confirmed. "We start construction in May. Usually, we arrive [for example, in Miami] and start preparations a few days before the event. Here, we'll start more than a month in advance."

Following the initial announcement, White showcased early plans for the event's appearance — featuring the Octagon on the South Lawn with a protective structure around the cage.

He also revealed that the full vision for the event would be unveiled during the UFC 327 broadcast this Saturday from Miami, with President Donald Trump also expected to be in attendance.

"In fact, this Saturday, people will see for the first time what the South Lawn will look like," White said. "During this weekend's event on Paramount. We have a special segment that will show how everything will be built."