President Trump joked about a temporary UFC event structure on the White House lawn, sparking widespread online confusion.

The president compared the UFC Freedom 250 arena and cage to the Eiffel Tower—a landmark that was also intended to be temporary but never came down. In a clip, Trump said the structure in front of the White House was attractive to many and joked it “might never come down.”

That comment went viral online, with many treating it as an official directive.

Trump clarified his remarks in an Oval Office statement on Thursday, June 4. He confirmed that the UFC octagon would be dismantled after the June 14 fight but emphasized the earlier comment was made jokingly and that he expressed dismay at how some people took it seriously.

The UFC Freedom 250 event, scheduled for June 14, 2026, is part of a year-long celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary. The White House has been promoting events under the Salute to America 250 Task Force to commemorate the milestone.

President Trump described the anniversary as “the most important milestone in our country’s history,” noting that “with a single sheet of parchment and 56 signatures, America began the greatest political journey in human history.”

The event will take place at the White House with a main card featuring Topuria versus Gaethje.