Justin Gaethje returns to White House for July 4th weekend

Justin Gaethje spent the Fourth of July back where he won his UFC lightweight title.

The newly crowned champion returned to the White House over the holiday weekend to celebrate with President Donald Trump, MMA Fighting reports. Gaethje captured the undisputed lightweight belt last month at UFC White House with a victory over Ilia Topuria in what the promotion billed as its 250th anniversary of America spectacular.

Gaethje celebrates title win with Trump visit

This marks Gaethje's second trip to the White House in a matter of weeks. The first came in an official capacity as he stopped Topuria to claim the championship in front of a crowd that included the president. This Independence Day visit appears more celebratory in nature, with the lightweight titleholder joining Trump for the holiday festivities.

The rest of the MMA world marked the occasion across social media, with fighters and figures from the sport posting tributes to the United States. The holiday fell on a Saturday this year, adding an extra layer of celebration to the weekend.

Gaethje has not yet announced his first title defense, though the UFC typically books lightweight champions within three to four months of winning the belt.

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — Justin Gaethje returns to the White House, the rest of the MMA community celebrates the Fourth of July | MMA Fighting