The upcoming White House event in 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated occasions in UFC history. Following Donald Trump‘s announcement, CEO Dana White has vowed to deliver an event more extravagant and unforgettable than ever before. As expected, the event has attracted numerous top-tier UFC superstars, though Ronda Rousey has chosen to pursue different plans.
Rousey, during her prime, became one of the UFC’s biggest stars and the very first women’s bantamweight champion. Following back-to-back defeats, ‘Rowdy’ exited the company and pursued a successful career in WWE, shifting her focus to entertainment. In a recent interview, Rousey was asked about returning for the White House event, but she immediately and firmly declined participation.
I am not fighting at the White House. I mean, after Mike Tyson being the biggest fight of the year (vs. Jake Paul), you never say never (potential return) But I ain’t fighting on the (expletive) White House. I got better (expletive) to do… My kid needs pasta.
Ronda Rousey via The Lapsed Fan
It is safe to say that the former 135lbs queen revolutionized the UFC by breaking barriers for women, creating unprecedented interest, and helping establish women’s divisions worldwide. Her fights consistently drew millions in revenue through pay-per-views, ticket sales, and merchandise, making her one of UFC’s biggest financial assets.
Moreover, White has repeatedly praised Rousey’s impact, acknowledging her dominance and professionalism, noting that working with her elevated the promotion’s global profile. However, while Rousey dominated the UFC, other fighters focused on defeating her, preparing specifically to overcome her strengths.
Holly Holm became the first fighter to defeat Rousey, with her precise boxing and tactical performance inside the Octagon at UFC 193, where she knocked her out in front of over 55,000 fans. Following the Holm loss, Rousey took an extended 13-month break from the company.
However, former UFC double champion Amanda Nunes at UFC 207 ultimately contributed to Rousey’s decision to retire from competition in 2016. And since then, Rousey has not returned to the UFC, often criticizing the media for unfair coverage and negative public scrutiny throughout her career.
Recently, Dana White flew to Washington, D.C., to meet President Donald Trump to finalize plans for the White House event. He aimed to create a historic spectacle, surpassing UFC 306 by delivering the most stacked fight card.
Plans include official weigh-ins held on the South Lawn, turning America’s most iconic residence into the ultimate fight stage ever. Moreover, Wall Street Journal has also reported that the event is now being scheduled for June 2026 instead of July as speculated earlier owing to logistic issues.
Fighters will warm up inside the White House, adding unique significance and history to combat sports never witnessed in UFC’s legendary past. Giant screens outside will broadcast every fight detail, while synchronized fireworks and dazzling light shows will transform the nation’s capital.
Former UFC double champion Conor McGregor has also shown interest in taking part and recently confirmed it in a reply to a post detailing the report by WSJ on X.
McGregor’s return
Conor McGregor via X
MCGREGOR’S RETURN! https://t.co/nbF9ItG1Md
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) September 5, 2025
For the unversed, McGregor has not fought in over four years, yet he has officially re-entered the mandatory UFC anti-doping testing pool. The fighter has shared multiple training clips online, showcasing intense workouts and dedication toward making a successful comeback fight.
Despite this, the Irishman’s past controversies and unpredictable antics have left many fans skeptical about believing his latest promises of return. However, White has expressed confidence, insisting that the former double champ will eventually return to potentially main event the White House card.
Apart from McGregor, former heavyweight champion Jon Jones has also confirmed that he’s getting ready for the White House event. While White isn’t sure about Jones, the fighter has plans to keep training and earn his spot.
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