Who Is Fighting on the UFC White House Card?
The UFC's White House card on June 14th is sneakily approaching, and Dana White confirmed this week that matchmaking meetings are underway with fights expected to be finalized by the weekend. The event less than four months away, and there's not much clarity to build off. The event is set to take place on the South Lawn of the White House, and will reportedly only feature 6 to 7 fights, opposed to the usual 12-14 fights on a UFC PPV or Fight Night card.
Topuria vs. Gaethje: The Likely Main Event
The most rumored matchup for the White House card is a Lightweight title unification bout between current Champion Ilia Topuria and interim Champion Justin Gaethje. Gaethje has been vocal about his desire to compete on the historic event, telling The Pat McAfee Show that "Ilia Topuria on the White House. Has to be. No other option."
Gaethje recently captured his second interim lightweight title by dominating Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, while Topuria has been sidelined dealing with personal issues. The matchup makes sense from a promotional standpoint, as Gaethje is currently one of only two American UFC champions on the roster, and the only male American UFC Champion.
Jones vs. Pereira: Dead in the Water?
Despite speculation earlier, the potential superfight between Jon Jones and Alex Pereira appears unlikely to happen. Dana White has expressed reluctance to book Jones due to trust issues stemming from his abrupt retirement, and Pereira recently posted "Looks like the White House is a NO GO!!!" on Instagram. Jones himself admitted the situation is out of his control, and has since opened up about severe arthritis in his hip that may keep him retired for good. Three months ago, this fight was the frontrunner to headline, now it doesn't seem likely.
McGregor's Return Remains Unclear
Conor McGregor has campaigned hard for a spot on the card, but Dana White has shot down the long-rumored matchup with Michael Chandler. McGregor has not fought since 2021 where he suffered a first round doctor stoppage loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. Michael Chandler has also campaigned for a spot on the card, calling out Max Holloway for the BMF title, or Arman Tsarukyan.
Harrison vs. Nunes Cutting it Close
The Bantamweight title fight between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes was originally scheduled for UFC 324 but was postponed due to Harrison undergoing neck surgery. As the only current female American UFC champion, Harrison seemed like a lock for the White House card, but only if she can recover in time. Her manager Ali Abdelaziz has expressed hope she can still make the June date if her recovery goes well, though nothing is confirmed.
What's Next?
With Dana White and the matchmakers meeting this week to finalize the card, fans should expect official announcements soon. The limited number of bouts means only the biggest names and most compelling matchups will make the cut. Whether that includes McGregor, Harrison, or other top stars remains to be seen.
What fights do you want to see on the UFC White House card? And who should headline this historic event? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know with a comment down below.
