Ilia Topuria is set to defend his lightweight world title against Justin Gaethje in the headline bout of the upcoming UFC White House event.
Meanwhile, in the co-main event scheduled for June 14, Alex Pereira will make the move to the heavyweight division to face Ciryl Gane for the interim title, as reigning champion Tom Aspinall is recovering from double eye surgery. Notably absent from the card is Conor McGregor, who previously mentioned he was excluded and plans to return to action in July.
Michael Chandler, initially rumored for a showdown with McGregor on President Donald Trump’s property, will now face Mauricio Ruffy. Additionally, former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley is set to fight Aiemann Zahabi. The six-fight card lineup is completed by Bo Nickal vs Kyle Daukaus and Diego Lopes vs Steve Garcia.
Dana White, the UFC CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the competitive matchups. He mentioned Pereira’s opportunity to secure a third championship and the anticipated showdown between Topuria and Gaethje.
White acknowledged the challenges in finalizing the fight card but assured that everything is in place for the event in Washington, D.C. He also hinted at a potential future bout between Pereira and Aspinall, depending on the outcome of their respective fights.
Furthermore, it was confirmed that Jon Jones will not be making a return to the octagon for a clash with Pereira, following the Brazilian’s decision to vacate his light-heavyweight title and move up a weight class.