Forget Jon Jones or Conor McGregor – UFC phenom Ilia Topuria is confidently asserting his place as the rightful headliner for the highly anticipated UFC event planned for the White House lawn in 2026. This historic event, initially proposed by then-President Donald Trump to mark 250 years of American Independence, has since expanded to a full fight card. UFC President Dana White has promised a grand spectacle and even released preliminary designs. Naturally, a multitude of prominent fighters, including Jones and McGregor, have expressed keen interest in competing, but Topuria believes he will outshine them all.
Topuria Confidently Predicts Headlining the White House Card
As one of the UFC`s brightest active stars, Ilia Topuria has forged an undeniable legacy, capturing titles in both the 145-pound and 155-pound divisions. While the specific opponent for his next fight remains unconfirmed following his decisive knockout victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, potential challengers include Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, and Arman Tsarukyan. Regardless of who steps up, Topuria is convinced he will be fighting for gold in the main event at the White House. So assured is he of this possibility that he openly challenged fans on social media, asking:
“Who wants to bet with me that I’m the main event at the White House?”
Paddy Pimblett Eager to Face Topuria in `Enemy Territory`
Among the hopeful contenders, Paddy Pimblett has been the most vocal in campaigning for a clash with Topuria. Building on their established rivalry, which saw them confront each other at UFC 317, “The Baddy” has continued to push for a fight, even suggesting a showdown in Topuria`s home country of Spain. Speaking to eldoberdanMMA, Pimblett declared:
“I want to fight Ilia, whenever, wherever. I’d love to come to Bernabéu and punch your face in. Do it in Spain in front of your fake countrymen because you’re really German.”
He emphatically added:
“I’d love to come and punch your face in in front of 90,000 people in the Bernabéu in enemy territory for me because the Bernabéu is a s—hole.”
Neville Whittle 
Jack Thornley