Ilia Topuria is set to defend his lightweight world championship against Justin Gaethje in the headline bout of the upcoming UFC event at the White House.
Meanwhile, in the co-main event scheduled for June 14, Alex Pereira will step up to the heavyweight division to face Ciryl Gane for the interim title while current champion Tom Aspinall is on the mend from a double eye surgery. Notably absent from the lineup is Conor McGregor, who confirmed he was not included on this card but is gearing up for a return to action in July.
Another anticipated matchup features Michael Chandler taking on Mauricio Ruffy, a fight that has long been rumored to take place on the front lawn of President Donald Trump. Additionally, former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley is set to clash with Aiemann Zahabi. Completing the six-fight card are Bo Nickal vs. Kyle Daukaus and Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia.
UFC CEO Dana White expressed excitement about the event, highlighting the unique opportunities for fighters like Pereira and Topuria. He emphasized the explosive potential of the Topuria-Gaethje showdown, praising the matchmaking team for their efforts in finalizing the card.
While discussing Pereira’s move up in weight class, White hinted at a potential future matchup between Pereira and Aspinall, depending on the outcome of Pereira’s fight with Gane. The announcement also confirmed that Jon Jones will not be making a dramatic return for a clash with Pereira, following the Brazilian’s decision to vacate his light-heavyweight title and move up in weight.
The event promises to deliver thrilling matchups and intense competition, with fans eagerly anticipating the action in Washington, D.C.