Imagine a historic UFC event on the White House lawn, only to exclude one of the greatest fighters of all time. That’s exactly what Joe Rogan fears could happen if Jon Jones isn’t part of the UFC White House card, and he’s not holding back his frustration. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump and UFC CEO Dana White announced a groundbreaking event to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, set to take place next summer on the White House lawn. Since then, fans and fighters alike have been buzzing with speculation about the card’s lineup. But here’s where it gets controversial: President Trump recently claimed the event will feature ‘eight or nine championship fights,’ leaving many scratching their heads. ‘Wait a minute,’ you might think, ‘aren’t there only eight weight classes in the UFC?’ Well, Rogan had the same question. On his podcast, he humorously pointed out the logistical impossibility: ‘First of all, there are only eight weight classes, so how’s there going to be nine title fights? [Laughs]’ he quipped, mimicking Trump’s exaggerated style. ‘We’re gonna have 20 title fights! All the title fights that’s ever been!’
In reality, the UFC has 11 weight classes—eight for men, three for women, plus the ceremonial ‘BMF’ belt. But Rogan’s skepticism is valid: even with these divisions, squeezing in nine title fights would shatter the previous record of three, which has only happened nine times. And for Rogan, the real priority isn’t stacking the card with titles—it’s ensuring one fighter, Jon Jones, steps into the Octagon. ‘If they don’t do Jon Jones at the White House, I think it would be a travesty,’ Rogan declared passionately. ‘They need to do that. C’mon! Dana’s like, ‘You can’t count on him.’ You can f*cking count on him. C’mon, stop. At the White House? C’mon!’
Jones has been vocal about his desire to compete at this historic event, even ending his brief retirement to make it happen. Yet, Dana White has repeatedly dismissed the idea, labeling Jones as unreliable. But is Dana’s skepticism justified, or is he underestimating Jones’s commitment? This is the part most people miss: Jones’s inclusion could elevate the event to legendary status, but his past controversies make it a risky gamble. Meanwhile, other fighters like Islam Makhachev, Kayla Harrison, and Conor McGregor are eagerly lobbying for their spot, ensuring the card will be star-studded regardless.
However, Rogan warns that fighting at the White House won’t be a walk in the park. ‘There’s a lot of weird pressure,’ he noted. ‘All the security, protocols—it’s a lot to handle before you even step into the Octagon. Plus, it’s an outdoor event in June. What if it’s hot and muggy? That could throw fighters off their game.’ And this is where it gets even more intriguing: How will the UFC manage the elements? Will there be a roof? What if temperatures soar to 98 degrees? ‘D.C. gets hot in the summer,’ Rogan reminded everyone. ‘Who knows what’s going to happen?’
As the event draws closer, scheduled for June 14, the debate rages on. Should Jon Jones be given a chance to shine on this historic stage, or is Dana White right to play it safe? And what challenges will the fighters face in such an unconventional setting? One thing’s for sure: this event is shaping up to be one for the history books—but only if it gets everything right. What do you think? Should Jon Jones be on the card, or is Dana White making the smart call? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
