• Sean Strickland refuses to participate in White House UFC event despite supporting Trump
• Fighter cites Epstein files controversy and lack of fan inclusion
• Event scheduled for June 14, 2026 on South Lawn for America’s 250th anniversary

WASHINGTON, DC (TDR) — Pro-Trump UFC star Sean Strickland has no interest in participating in the president’s White House fight night due to the controversy involving Jeffrey Epstein.

Trump’s Vision for White House UFC

For months, President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to host a UFC event at the White House. The event is scheduled for June 14, 2026, coinciding with Flag Day and Trump’s 80th birthday.

If such an event comes to fruition, Trump can count Strickland out despite the fighter being among the president’s most vocal supporters in the sport. On a recent livestream with internet streamer Adin Ross, Strickland explained his reasoning.

“I think I’d wanna do the White House if there was some kind of inclusion for fans. But just to go hang out with the f—ing Epstein list? I’m good, dog. I’m good, dude.”

Decision Tied to Epstein Files Release

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Strickland’s decision coincided with the DOJ’s release of files showcasing images, documents and flight logs tied to Epstein and his wealthy entourage.

The administration was compelled to share the documents publicly after Trump signed the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act into law last month. Photos have resurfaced of Trump with Epstein, raising questions about the president’s knowledge of the disgraced financier’s alleged sex trafficking.

Other Fighters Express Similar Reservations

Strickland isn’t the only fighter to distance himself from the matchup. UFC fighter Brandon Royval also questioned the event.

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“Fighting in front of them seems like some f—ing ‘Hunger Games’ type of s—,” Royval said. “I don’t give a f— to fight in front of billionaires who could give a s— less about me.”

Strickland’s Evolving Political Stance

Although Strickland has remained a Trump supporter, he has been critical of the administration during his second term. The former middleweight champion previously drew a line over MAGA’s ties to Israel and AIPAC-backed candidates.

UFC CEO Dana White has confirmed seating capacity for the South Lawn event will be under 5,000 people due to security concerns.

Will other top UFC fighters follow Strickland’s lead in declining the White House event, or will Dana White assemble his promised championship lineup?

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