UFC recently unveiled the full lineup for “UFC Freedom 250,” also known as the “White House Card,” scheduled for June 14. Fighters selected for this exclusive event have already expressed their excitement.
Six bouts, including two championship fights, will take place on the South Lawn of the White House.
Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, and Others on Their UFC Freedom 250 Participation
The main event of this unprecedented evening will feature a lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.
Ilia Topuria, confident in his participation on June 14, immediately reacted to the announcement, confirming his predictions. “El Matador” posted a chilling warning to his next opponent, Gaethje, on Instagram: “18-0 🌹”.
Justin Gaethje, present at UFC 326 during the announcement, commented on his inclusion: “I kind of knew. It’s amazing. I’m not almost crying, but I’m very proud.”
The co-main event of UFC Freedom 250 will be Ciryl Gane versus Alex Pereira for the interim heavyweight title (up to 265 pounds). Gane reacted to the news with a series of emojis, expressing his fighting spirit.
Sean O’Malley, who hadn’t expected to fight at the White House, shared his excitement after the announcement of his bout against Aiemann Zahabi. The former bantamweight champion confessed how much he had to plead with the UFC to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime card. He stated: “I told UFC, ‘I would love to fight at the White House card. Please let me fight at the White House. I’ll fight anybody.’ This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. America vs. Canada.”
O’Malley’s opponent, Zahabi, was equally thrilled and shared his enthusiasm across social media with multiple posts, including emojis and the phrase “Let’s get them back baby!!”.
Meanwhile, Bo Nickal, who initially desired to fight Colby Covington on June 14, will now face Kyle Daukaus. Nickal responded succinctly: “See you at the White House.”
Daukaus posted on Instagram: “Honored. Grateful. Undeniable. #UFC #Freedom250 #MMA.”
Reactions were also received from Michael Chandler, Mauricio Ruffy, and Diego Lopes.
UFC President Dana White also commented after the announcement of the UFC Freedom 250 bouts.