On his 80th birthday, Donald Trump invites MMA and its wire cage to the White House on Sunday, transforming its lawns into a spectacular combat arena for a unique evening. The American president’s birthday could also coincide with the signing of an agreement on the war in the Middle East. The Republican billionaire and the Pakistani mediator said an agreement would be signed on Sunday, which Tehran has not confirmed at this stage.
In the meantime, the “claw”, an imposing metal arch 28 meters high in the colors of America, has taken place under the windows of the White House. Below, sits the octagon where seven face-to-face matches will take place in the evening. This spectacle organized at the heart of political power, valued at $60 million according to the press, is raising eyebrows at a time when the war against Iran is increasing the cost of living for Americans. The White House assures that the UFC finances the entire event.
A certain idea of America
As usual, Donald Trump sees the big picture. More than 4,000 hand-picked guests are expected around the cage. And up to 125,000 curious people will be able to gather in an adjacent park to follow the fights on a giant screen. By opening the doors of the White House wide to MMA, it is a certain idea of America that Donald Trump is putting in the spotlight. Popular in particular among young men, an electorate who counted in his return to power, this sport embodies to the extreme his taste for uninhibited virility.
Senior UFC official, Craig Borsari, denies mixing sport and politics. “We see this as an incredible and completely unique opportunity to celebrate this country and our athletes,” he said at a press conference on Wednesday. Would the UFC have set up such a project with a Democratic president? “100%,” he said. Called “Freedom 250,” the event is part of the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. Military bands, aerial flyovers and paratroopers are announced by the media.
“He is managing his presidency the way he managed his career before: like a big, flashy spectacle”
The show eclipses questions around the age of the president, the oldest ever elected in the United States, fueled by his makeup bruises on his hands or the moments when he seems to doze off in public. His doctor says he is in excellent health. In a video published by his entourage during the week, the Republican president admits to being “not delighted to celebrate this anniversary”. “It’s not a number I like, but I’m here anyway.” “He is managing his presidency the way he managed his career before: like a big, flashy spectacle,” summarizes Peter Loge, head of the school of media and public affairs at George Washington University.
