Trump Jokes About Fighting UFC Star Ahead Of 80th Birthday

Dana White shared that President Donald Trump once asked whether he could “beat the s---” out of one of the promotion’s fighters. The moment is on-brand for Trump as he continues to project toughness ahead of his 80th birthday even though he's just had his third medical checkup in a year.

White shared the story in an interview with Time Magazine as the upcoming UFC event scheduled approaches. The fight will take place on the White House South Lawn next month as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

And luckily for Trump, the match is scheduled to take place on his 80th birthday.

The UFC CEO said that Trump became distracted while White and UFC executives were doing some planning backstage during UFC 327 in April.

There were two televisions playing while they were talking — one airing Fox News and another showing fights — when welterweight Kevin Holland appeared on screen.

“Now, if I wanted to heavy train, because I'm a very good athlete, could I beat the s--- out of him?” Trump asked White, according to the interview. He added, "Or would you stop me from trying?"

White responded, “I would stop you, sir.”

The playful exchange between White and Trump quickly became news headlines just as conversation around Trump’s age, stamina and public image increased.

Trump turns 80 next month and recently had another medical evaluation at Walter Reed Medical Center. The White House has repeatedly insisted the president is still in strong health.

Still, White’s recollection included another notable observation about the 47th president.

He admitted that he originally worried that showing Trump detailed plans for the White House UFC event might be difficult because the president “doesn't have the patience or the attention span to do this here.”

White said that Trump did sit through the presentation, even though the conversation continued to drift back toward the fights happening on the television nearby.

Trump is known for his love of sports, and in particular, for combat sports such as wrestling and mixed martial arts. Trump has attended UFC events for years and remains close friends with White, who has supported him politically.

Preparations have started for the UFC Freedom 250 event planned outside the White House on June 14 . Not only is the event part of the 250th anniversary celebrations, but the event will fall on Trump’s 80th birthday.

Construction crews have already begun building an octagon-shaped cage on the South Lawn. Drawings show a large arena-style octagon with patriotic staging, giant screens and thousands of temporary seats.

Trump recently claimed demand for tickets has been overwhelming.

“I have never seen anybody want anything so much as people want those tickets,” Trump said recently. “That’s gonna be something.”

The White House UFC event has generated mixed reactions from netizens. Supporters praised the event as uniquely American while critics aren't thrilled that the White House grounds are being converted into a UFC venue amid a war and economic instability.