Joe Rogan Criticizes Trump’s Plan for UFC Event at the White House

Podcaster and mixed martial arts commentator Joe Rogan criticized President Donald Trump’s proposal to host an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event at the White House for the nation’s 250th anniversary. During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan expressed his concerns about the unusual plan, calling it “odd.”

The event, slated for June 14, aims to celebrate the Declaration of Independence and coincide with Trump’s 80th birthday. It will feature a 5,000-seat arena and octagon-shaped cage on the South Lawn. Rogan conveyed his reservations to guests Josh Thompson and “Big” John McCarthy, both experienced MMA veterans.

“The White House thing is odd,” Rogan remarked. “I don’t like it. I don’t like the idea of fighting outside at all.”

Thompson agreed, pointing out potential “problems” with the unconventional setup.

Rogan highlighted concerns about the weather, noting that the temperature in Washington, D.C. reached 100 degrees on the same date the previous year. He also mentioned issues related to lighting and insects during a summer outdoor event.

“What are you gonna do? Like, how are you gonna stop the bugs?” Rogan continued. “I just don’t think that you should compete in a world championship fight in a non-controlled environment.”

Rogan advocated for constructing a roof over the event to ensure a controlled environment, similar to other sports championships. Trump announced that the $60 million event, funded by the UFC, would include a 5,000-seat arena, a red, white, and blue stage, and large screens for broadcasting.

“Yeah, build a roof,” Rogan suggested. “Like, you’ve got all the money in the world, right?”

Despite Rogan’s support for Trump in the 2024 election and his appearance at the Oval Office, he has disagreed with Trump on various issues, including the war in Iran and federal immigration enforcement operations.

Democrats have criticized the planned event, arguing it blurs the line between government functions and entertainment. Trump, however, views it as a celebration of American history.

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office commented on social media, urging the president to prioritize lowering gas prices over hosting the event. Senator Adam Schiff and Representative Jared Huffman also criticized the plan, emphasizing the economic burdens citizens face.

Despite the backlash, the White House dismissed critiques, describing detractors as “America Last losers” while praising the UFC event as a historic sports celebration.

President Trump appears undeterred by the criticism, noting a strong demand for tickets. He called the upcoming event “something” guests eagerly anticipate.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.