Former Ultimate Fighting Championship and WWE star Ronda Rousey has definitively shut down speculation about her participation in the planned UFC event at the White House, scheduled for June 2026 to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary of independence.
During a recent appearance on The Lapsed Fan podcast to promote her new graphic novel, Rousey was asked directly about fighting at the historic event. Her response was unequivocal: Rousey stated, “I ain’t fighting at the f****** White House.”
When pressed by podcast hosts about why she would decline such an opportunity if offered, Rousey explained her reasoning in characteristically blunt terms. She indicated that she has better priorities to focus on, specifically mentioning that her child needs pasta. The 38-year-old fighter made clear that her family obligations take precedence over any potential return to professional fighting.
Despite her firm rejection of the White House event, Rousey did not completely close the door on a potential return to combat sports. She referenced Mike Tyson’s recent high-profile bout against Jake Paul as an example of unexpected comebacks, noting that one should never say never in the fight business. However, she remained adamant about not participating in the presidential venue event.
The UFC White House card represents an unprecedented event in mixed martial arts history. President Donald Trump announced the plan earlier this year, with expectations of hosting approximately 20,000 to 25,000 attendees for what officials describe as a “full fight” event. The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump is intimately involved in planning the event, with UFC President Dana White having visited the White House recently to discuss arrangements.
Steven Cheung, White House Communications Director, characterized the upcoming event as potentially one of the greatest and most historic sports events in history. The card is expected to feature both male and female fighters, though specific participants have not been officially announced. Trump’s daughter Ivanka is also reportedly assisting with event planning.
Rousey’s potential involvement had generated significant speculation among fans and media outlets. The former bantamweight champion recently gave birth to her second child and has posted training photos and videos on social media, fueling comeback rumors. However, she has not publicly confirmed whether any official approach was made regarding her participation in the White House event.
The fighter’s career trajectory provides context for the speculation. Rousey made her UFC debut at UFC 157 in February 2013, successfully defending her title against Liz Carmouche. She dominated the division with five consecutive title defenses before suffering a shocking upset loss to Holly Holm at UFC 193 in November 2015.
Rousey attempted a comeback 13 months later at UFC 207, facing then-champion Amanda Nunes. However, Nunes defeated Rousey in just 48 seconds, marking what became the fighter’s final MMA appearance. Following her UFC career, Rousey transitioned to professional wrestling with WWE, where she enjoyed a five-year run and became the only woman in history to hold titles in both UFC and WWE.
The White House event has attracted interest from numerous high-profile fighters seeking spots on the historic card. Notable names including Conor McGregor, Jon Jones, Michael Chandler, and Colby Covington have publicly expressed interest in participating.
Trump has long been an enthusiast of mixed martial arts and maintains a friendship with UFC President Dana White. The President has attended multiple mixed martial arts events in recent months, demonstrating his continued involvement with the sport.
While Rousey’s rejection removes one potential marquee name from consideration, the event organizers continue planning what they anticipate will be a landmark moment in both sports and American history. The June 2026 date aligns with the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations, though specific venue details and additional participants remain undisclosed.
