A US federal judge has declined to block a planned UFC fight night at the White House, set to coincide with President Donald Trump's birthday, ruling that the event can proceed despite legal objections.
The decision, issued by a district court judge, rejects arguments from plaintiffs who sought to prevent the mixed martial arts event on constitutional grounds. The complaint alleged that hosting the private sports promotion on federal property violated rules against political favoritism and misuse of government resources.
In his ruling, the judge stated that the plaintiffs failed to demonstrate irreparable harm or a clear legal violation that would warrant an injunction. The court found that prior White House events of a similar nature, including sports and entertainment gatherings, had been permitted.
The UFC event is scheduled for June 14, Trump's 79th birthday, and will feature a series of exhibition matches. White House officials have framed it as a celebration of American athletics and military personnel, with proceeds going to veteran charities.
Legal analysts note that while the event may raise ethical questions, the court's focus was on procedural and jurisdictional issues rather than the merits of the dispute. The Justice Department defended the event as a permissible use of the White House for official and ceremonial purposes.
Neither the White House nor the UFC has commented further on the ruling.