The Pentagon is inviting service members who meet specific height and weight standards to attend a UFC event hosted by President Donald Trump on the White House grounds next month. The event, known as UFC Freedom 250, is aimed at junior enlisted personnel and junior officers who are fans of mixed martial arts, as reported by the Washington Post.
A memo from the Air Force indicated that tickets are available for 'genuine UFC fans' and specified that recipients must meet a Waist-to-Height Ratio of less than 0.55 and fulfill service-specific physical fitness test requirements. Those selected will be responsible for their own travel expenses.
Davis Ingle, a White House spokesman, stated that the event is intended to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The event coincides with President Trump's 80th birthday, and he has expressed a long-standing interest in the sport, having attended previous fights. Dana White, UFC’s chief executive, mentioned that the event will cost approximately $30 million.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has previously highlighted the importance of maintaining troop standards, stating there will be no tolerance for overweight personnel in the military.