Trump Hosts UFC Event to Celebrate 80th Birthday, White House South Lawn Transformed into Octagon Arena [Video]

(CNA, Washington, 14th — International News Compilation) Following the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, U.S. President Trump hosted an intense mixed martial arts event on the South Lawn of the White House to celebrate his 80th birthday, showcasing a display of political masculinity.

According to AFP, Trump walked from the Oval Office alongside UFC President Dana White toward a massive arena dubbed 'The Claw.'

Along the way, Trump stepped onto the historic Truman Balcony to greet the crowd. The U.S. national anthem was played, and 12 U.S. military fighter jets flew low over the White House.

Trump then proceeded to the South Lawn, taking a seat beside the octagonal cage known as the 'Octagon,' where 14 fighters were set to compete in a bloody combat tournament — the first professional sports event ever held at the White House.

Trump watched the opening bout, in which Brazilian fighter Diego Lopes won by knockout (KO).

Prior to the event, Trump announced the U.S.-Iran peace agreement, making it a centerpiece of his birthday celebration. Trump became the oldest person to assume the presidency upon his return to the White House last year.

However, the grand spectacle faced potential weather disruptions, as thunderstorms delayed the $60 million MMA event by at least one hour.

Dubbed 'UFC Freedom 250,' the event was part of the United States' 250th anniversary of independence celebrations, coinciding with Flag Day and Trump's 80th birthday.

Nonetheless, the unprecedented fight event drew fierce criticism, with opponents arguing that hosting such a tasteless spectacle at the White House is inappropriate amid soaring prices caused by the U.S.-Iran war.

Supporters watching the event on giant screens at the Ellipse near the White House defended the occasion.

Mark Toone, a 50-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran, said the fight 'fully symbolizes and represents American culture. I regret that the opposition is spreading a lot of false information about this event.'

The White House emphasized that the UFC, as the event organizer, would cover all costs. (Compiled by Liu Wen-yu) 1150615

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