US President Donald Trump celebrated his 80th birthday on Sunday night with the MMA gala "UFC Freedom 250" on the White House lawn. Trump congratulated American Justin Gaethje, who won the lightweight title in the main event against Ilia Topuria.
The sporting event has been hyped in advance by the MMA organization UFC, and critics have compared it to the film "Idiocracy" - about an IQ-free future in which a wrestling star becomes president.
“USA! USA!”
Donald Trump and UFC president Dana White opened the gala to shouts of "USA! USA!" in a strongly patriotic setting.
Before the event began, current middleweight champion Sean Strickland showed up at the UFC Fan Fest near the White House after claiming to be banned for comments about the Trump administration, the Epstein files and Israel, which UFC president Dana White denied. Strickland managed to step into the ring and meet fans before security quickly escorted him out.
“Indicted. Sounds cool”
"I could be charged with disorderly conduct. I don't know what that is, but it sounds cool," Strickland joked afterwards on his Instagram.
Josh Hokit won his heavyweight bout against Derrick Lewis. After the victory, he attracted attention when he concluded his interview with commentator Joe Rogan in front of the White House with a controversial statement:
And last but not least, Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?
The insult to the former first lady came seemingly out of nowhere and drew laughter from the audience, as well as angry comments online. Joe Rogan looked surprised but did not comment on the statement.
