Joe Rogan, a well-known podcaster and mixed martial arts commentator, criticized President Donald Trump’s plan to host a UFC event at the White House. This event is intended to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. During an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan called the event planned for June 14 “odd.” It will feature a 5,000-seat arena with an octagon-shaped cage on the South Lawn. The event will also commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and Trump’s 80th birthday.
Rogan expressed his concerns to guests Josh Thompson and “Big” John McCarthy, both veterans of mixed martial arts. He emphasized his dislike for the outdoor setup, stating, “The White House thing is odd. I don’t like it. I don’t like the idea of fighting outside at all.” Thompson shared his concerns, highlighting “problems” with this unconventional arrangement.
“And then there’s June, and it’s D.C., and we looked it up,” Rogan pointed out. “The last time, like last year, same day, was 100 degrees. Yeah. Oh yeah, yeah, hot as f***.”
McCarthy, an experienced UFC referee, noted the additional lighting needed for the event would attract insects. Rogan raised further environmental concerns, questioning how they would manage the insects: “I just don’t think that you should compete in a world championship fight in a non-controlled environment.” Rogan insisted that such events should occur in air-conditioned venues, similar to other world championship sports.
Rogan suggested the Trump administration construct a roof for the cage being set up at the White House. The $60 million event, financed by the UFC, will include a red, white, and blue stage, an enormous arch adorned with stars and stripes, and large screens broadcasting the matches.
Despite supporting Trump in the 2024 election, and previously appearing in the Oval Office, Rogan disagrees on certain issues. These include opposing the war in Iran and criticizing both the release of the Epstein files and federal immigration operations.
Some Democrats condemned the event, arguing it mixes government functions with campaign-style entertainment. Trump regards it as a celebration of American history. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office recently remarked on inflated gas prices amid the event’s grandeur. Senator Adam Schiff, also from California, described it as disconnected from the struggles many Americans face.
Representative Jared Huffman criticized the spending on opulent features like a 250-foot arch and restructuring the East Wing. He linked the costs to citizens’ increased expenses.
The White House dismissed these critiques, stating: “Dumocrats are opposed to anything that celebrates the greatness of our Country because they are America Last losers.”
Trump remains unfazed by criticism, highlighting the strong public demand for event tickets: “I have never seen anybody want anything so much as people want those tickets. That’s gonna be something.”