Countdown begins: Ilia Topuria prepares for historic UFC event at the White House
The Spanish-Georgian boxer revealed on Spanish TV that he will leave for Miami on Monday to complete his training camp for his fight with Justin Gaethje.
The countdown is officially underway for what’s being billed as the most exclusive event in UFC history — and Ilia Topuria is set to be the star of the night. The Spanish‑Georgian champion will defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje on June 14 at the White House. During his appearance last night on Antena 3 chatshow El Hormiguero, Topuria told host Pablo Motos that he’ll be flying to Miami this Monday, April 13 to finish his training camp in the United States.
A fight shrouded in mystery — until now
For months, the “UFC White House” event was wrapped in secrecy. Fans didn’t know the lineup, the venue layout, or even who would headline. Topuria revealed that he was in Miami waiting for confirmation as the UFC finalized the card.
He explained that at one point he was told he wouldn’t be included — something he interpreted as part of the negotiation process. “They called me and said they weren’t counting on me, that I should go my own way and they’d talk to my team later. But I knew they’d call back,” Topuria said.
From Makhachev Rumors to a Gaethje Showdown
Early reports suggested Islam Makhachev would be Topuria’s opponent. UFC President Dana White later denied claims from Makhachev that the fight fell apart because Topuria demanded an excessive purse. Ultimately, the UFC chose Justin Gaethje, the No. 1 lightweight contender and two‑time interim champion.
Topuria recalled the moment the deal was finalized: “I got back home, and at two in the morning my phone started blowing up. I had like 15 missed calls. From 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. we were talking, and that’s when they told me I was in.”
Training Camp Moves to Miami
To prepare for Gaethje — who will be fighting on home turf — Topuria is relocating to Miami on Monday, April 13 to complete his U.S. training camp.
“Because of Justin’s fighting style, I’m pretty sure this one’s going to be short,” Topuria said confidently.
Gaethje is known for his chaotic, high‑pressure striking and his willingness to walk through fire. Even Khabib Nurmagomedov has said Gaethje was the hardest hitter he ever faced.
A Historic Night at the White House
The White House event is part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of U.S. Independence, scheduled on the birthday of President Donald Trump, who is widely known as a longtime MMA fan, as is his daughter Ivanka.
Topuria admitted he’s still trying to picture what the setup will look like: “What I can’t visualize is the stage — inside one of the most iconic places in the world. I think the red corner and the main event walkout will come from Trump’s office. I don’t even know what that moment will be like.”
A record‑breaking production
The event will triple the cost of the UFC’s massive show at The Sphere in Las Vegas. It will feature:
- No advertising anywhere on the broadcast
- A VIP‑only crowd of 5,000 guests
- A direct investment of $60 million (about €52 million)
- Fighter walkouts potentially starting from the Oval Office
- A strict rule allowing only U.S. flags
Meanwhile, The Ellipse, the park just south of the White House, will transform into the official Fan Zone. More than 80,000 fans are expected to gather there to watch the fights on giant screens.
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