Rogan Flags Security Risks as UFC’s White House Card Draws Criticism, McGregor Meeting Reported Positive

Overview

• The June 14 Freedom 250 at the White House features six bouts headlined by Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje, with Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane as the co-main for an interim heavyweight belt.
• Joe Rogan called staging the event during an ongoing Middle East conflict “crazy,” warning that a high-profile gathering at the White House presents security concerns.
• Ronda Rousey criticized UFC fighter pay, highlighting claims of financial strain for athletes even as the promotion pursues a reported $7.7 billion streaming deal with Paramount and remains under antitrust pressure after a $375 million 2024 settlement.
• Dana White denied Jon Jones’s assertion that he was lowballed for the card, saying Jones was never under consideration for a White House fight.
• Ariel Helwani reported a “positive” Conor McGregor meeting with the UFC, and McGregor’s social posts hint at a possible July return during International Fight Week, though no bout is confirmed.