UFC Freedom 250: Blue Angels, dirt bikes, fireworks at White House

UFC Freedom 250 has transformed the White House and the Ellipse into what may be the largest fight week spectacle the promotion has ever staged.

The event, which doubles as President Donald Trump's birthday and kicks off a monthlong celebration of America's 250th anniversary, has drawn tens of thousands to the nation's capital for a multi-day festival featuring military precision teams, extreme sports performers, and nonstop entertainment. According to MMA Mania, UFC CEO Dana White has repeatedly stressed that this goes beyond a typical cage fighting event.

Military flyovers and Nitro Circus stunts headline White House festivities

The festivities have included appearances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the Golden Knights parachute team, marine drill platoons, marching bands, and Nitro Circus dirt bike jumpers. "This isn't just a cage fighting event," White said, per MMA Mania's coverage of the week's events. The outdoor activities have taken place on the Ellipse, the park directly below the White House, where the main fights are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET on Paramount+.

Ilia Topuria meets Justin Gaethje in the headliner, with ceremonial weigh-ins having taken place Friday evening. Commentator Joe Rogan joined White onstage for the proceedings.

The card kicks off tonight on Paramount+.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Highlights! Blue Angel fly overs, dirt bike jumps, lightning strikes, fireworks and much more for UFC Freedom 250 (and Trump’s birthday bash)