Joe Rogan Goes After Trump UFC Fight

Podcast host and UFC commentator Joe Rogan voiced concerns this week about President Donald Trump’s plan to host a large-scale UFC event on the White House grounds as part of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration.

During an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan described the proposed outdoor fight card as “odd” and questioned whether championship-level competition should take place outside in the summer heat.

The event is expected to feature a temporary arena and octagon cage constructed on the South Lawn of the White Houseas part of celebrations tied to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Trump has also promoted the event alongside festivities surrounding his upcoming 80th birthday.

Speaking with former MMA fighters Josh Thompson and “Big” John McCarthy, Rogan expressed concern about weather conditions in Washington, D.C., during June, noting that temperatures could approach triple digits.

McCarthy also pointed to possible technical challenges, including lighting requirements and the likelihood that insects could become a problem during an outdoor nighttime event.

Rogan argued that major title fights should occur in controlled indoor environments rather than outdoors in unpredictable heat and humidity. He compared the idea to holding a championship basketball game outside in extreme weather conditions.

The longtime UFC commentator suggested organizers should at least construct a roof over the octagon to help shield fighters from the elements.

Trump has promoted the event as a major patriotic celebration and said the UFC would cover the estimated $60 million cost. Plans reportedly include a 5,000-seat setup, large video screens, patriotic-themed staging, and championship bouts featuring some of the UFC’s biggest stars.

Although Rogan endorsed Trump during the 2024 election cycle and has supported some administration initiatives, he has also publicly disagreed with the president on several issues in recent months, including foreign policy decisions and certain immigration enforcement actions.

The proposed event has also drawn criticism from several Democratic lawmakers and officials, who argued the spectacle blurs the line between government functions and political entertainment.

Gavin Newsom’s office criticized the project on social media, while Sen. Adam Schiff and Rep. Jared Huffmanquestioned the timing and cost of the event amid ongoing economic concerns facing many Americans.

The White House dismissed the criticism, defending the UFC showcase as part of a broader celebration of American history and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Despite the backlash, Trump has continued promoting the event enthusiastically, saying demand for tickets has already been extremely high and predicting the fight night will become one of the most memorable sporting events ever held at the White House.