How UFC Scored a White House Fight Night

CNN One Thing

Jun 10, 2026•27 min

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Episode description

A scheduled UFC fight at the White House on Sunday is being billed as a kickoff for America’s 250th birthday celebrations. But some critics are calling it a disrespectful money grab, and those who follow combat sports closely believe it is just an extension of a relationship that has served both sides financially and politically for years. So beyond the optics of the octagon, what purpose does this event serve? And can it help Trump and the GOP win back young male voters?

For more: Young men are leaving Trump. Can a UFC fight at the White House get them back in the ring?

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Guests: Francisco Muñiz & Luke Thomas

Host: David Rind

Producer: Paola Ortiz

Showrunner: Felicia Patinkin

Editorial Support: Kit Maher

Photo by: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

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