UFC cage rises on White House lawn ahead of historic fight night on Trump’s 80th birthday

The White House has begun construction on a UFC fighting cage on its South Lawn ahead of next month's event to celebrate 250 years of American independence.

Mr. Trump is also planning a temporary IndyCar street circuit racing past landmarks including the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol that will take place in August.

The backlash over Trump hosting a UFC event at the White House reflects growing scrutiny of how the administration uses public resources for high‑profile political moments.

The cage and stage will themselves be surrounded by thousands of temporary seats, including ringside space for a full marching band that can set the entire scene to blaring music.