WASHINGTON — A federal lawsuit filed this weekend seeks to block an upcoming Ultimate Fighting Championship event scheduled for the South Lawn of the White House on June 14, according to court documents and officials.
The suit, brought by the Public Integrity Project on behalf of two Virginia residents, was filed in U.S. District Court in Washington on Saturday. It requests an emergency injunction to halt UFC Freedom 250, a mixed martial arts event planned as part of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States and coinciding with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday.
The plaintiffs allege that federal agencies, including the National Park Service and Department of the Interior, violated regulations by authorizing a private sporting event on federal parkland without congressional approval or a required environmental review. Construction of a large arena structure, including an octagon fighting cage and overhead lighting known as "The Claw," has been underway on the South Lawn.
A spokesperson for the Public Integrity Project described the event in the filing as an improper use of public property. The lawsuit contends it would provide improper benefits to the UFC, its leadership and associated parties.
The Justice Department, representing the federal agencies, urged a judge on Tuesday to reject the challenge, arguing it was filed too late after months of planning and construction. Administration officials have defended the event as a legitimate collaboration and no different from other public gatherings hosted on the grounds.
UFC officials have not directly commented on the litigation in detail but have proceeded with preparations for the card, which is expected to feature high-profile bouts. The event is set to accommodate about 4,300 spectators on the South Lawn, with additional fan activities planned nearby.
Details regarding costs and funding remain subject to ongoing court filings. Reports have cited figures exceeding $60 million for preparations, though specific breakdowns were not immediately confirmed by all parties.
The White House South Lawn falls under National Park Service jurisdiction in certain respects, which forms the basis of the plaintiffs' regulatory claims. Similar large-scale events on federal property have faced scrutiny in the past, though outcomes have varied.
As of Thursday, no ruling had been issued on the request for an injunction. The event remains scheduled, with federal agencies continuing preparations.
A Justice Department filing called the plaintiffs "two people who believe they have superior taste and want to spoil the event for everyone else," according to reports on the government's response.
The case is being closely watched as the June 14 date approaches. Further hearings or decisions could come in the coming days, officials indicated.
