Trump celebrates his 80th birthday with an MMA gala at the White House, despite criticism and international tensions

Le président américain Donald Trump The U.S. celebrated its 80th anniversary on Sunday by hosting a unique event at the White House: an evening of mixed martial arts (MMA) fights in a specially constructed arena on the South Lawn of the presidential residence. Dubbed "UFC Freedom 250," the event also coincides with the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, which is scheduled for next month.

The event highlights Donald Trump's atypical political style, known for its many spectacular initiatives. Seventeen months into his second term, the president continues to push the boundaries of traditional office practices by hosting an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) octagon just a few meters from the historic White House buildings.

The evening features seven fights with fourteen fighters from five different countries. The main event will pit UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria against former interim champion Justin Gaethje. Approximately 4,000 spectators are expected in a temporary 28-meter-high structure nicknamed "The Claw."

This celebration, however, comes at a delicate political time for the American president. The United States has been engaged in a war against Iran for several months, while inflation has reached its highest level in three years. Several polls also show growing concern among a segment of the electorate regarding the economic and international situation.

The organization of this event has drawn criticism from some observers and political figures. Donald Trump used his executive powers to authorize a private company to hold a show on a federal site, a decision considered by his opponents to be a break with the usual practices of the American presidency.

According to Reuters, tickets were not sold to the general public. A portion of the seats were reportedly reserved for guests who paid over a million dollars, while approximately a quarter of the attendees were said to be members of the U.S. armed forces. These arrangements have fueled questions about the event's cost and potential conflicts of interest.

Despite the controversies, the White House presents this evening as a moment of national celebration and popular unity. For Donald Trump, a longtime combat sports enthusiast and close to the UFC, the event also represents a demonstration of his political and media influence at a key moment in his presidency.