UFC White House Event: ABC to Advise on Regulations for Historic MMA Card

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has announced a landmark decision for its upcoming event on Sunday, June 14, at the historic White House. The Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), the recognized regulatory body overseeing professional boxing and MMA in the United States, will serve as an independent third-party advisor to ensure robust regulatory operations for this unprecedented event.

Timothy Shipman, President of the Association of Boxing Commissions, released a statement clarifying that since the event will take place on federal property, there is no mandate for the UFC to engage a specific state athletic commission. He emphasized the UFC's dedication to making this event one of the most meticulously regulated in the history of combat sports. To achieve this, the UFC has requested ABC's assistance in assembling an elite team of judges, referees, and inspectors globally. Furthermore, the UFC has committed to adhering to all necessary regulatory standards, including comprehensive medical examinations, pre- and post-bout physicals, and stringent athlete safety protocols, confirming that all scheduled contests are officially licensed and sanctioned.

UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell and Senior Vice President of Government & Regulatory Affairs Marc Ratner will collaborate closely with ABC on the specifics of the event's oversight. Marc Ratner stated, "The UFC sets the benchmark for athlete health and safety in combat sports, and we are committed to upholding those industry-leading standards at this unique White House event." He extended gratitude to the ABC for their expertise in guaranteeing the highest levels of competitive integrity and professional governance for such a significant MMA stage.

This groundbreaking event, set to unfold on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C., marks the first professional sports event ever hosted at this world-renowned location. The fight card will feature six bouts, highlighted by a championship doubleheader. The main event will see UFC lightweight champion and pound-for-pound contender Ilia Topuria defend his title against interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje. In the co-main event, former UFC middleweight and light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira will attempt to secure a UFC title in an unprecedented third weight class when he faces former interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane.

The entire event will be streamed live on Paramount+ in the United States, accessible to subscribers at no extra cost. Further details regarding official fight week activities and other aspects of the event will be announced soon.