Israel Adesanya has made his stance clear on the upcoming UFC White House event, saying he will attend, but only if real fans are allowed to attend.
UFC middleweight star Israel Adesanya was asked if he would consider fighting on a White House card endorsed by current US President Donald Trump.
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A White House event to be organized by UFC CEO Dana White later this year is already attracting a lot of attention. As part of the sport’s historic visit to Washington, D.C., some of the promotion’s top names are expected to make appearances
Photography: Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC
Israel Adesanya wants real MMA fans to attend White House event
Israel Adesanya said in an interview with Ariel Helwani that he would not turn down the opportunity to compete in MMA, but stressed that the UFC should ensure that true supporters of the sport can attend.
He explained that fighting in front of politicians or guests unfamiliar with MMA does not reflect the spirit of the event.
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“I’m not going to say no, but I hope there are some fans out there — like real MMA fans,” Adesanya said. “I really don’t want to fight in front of a bunch of people in suits who don’t really care about MMA. I want the fans to be able to go and watch the fight as well. Yeah, I’m not going to take no for an answer.”
While open to the idea, the former champion said his biggest concern is fighting in front of an audience that may not truly appreciate the sport.
His comments come after UFC CEO Dana White confirmed plans for the White House card will be finalized in February.
The event will be the first of its kind and is seen as a significant moment in the sport’s mainstream visibility in the United States.
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Donald Trump to attend historic UFC White House card
Longtime MMA supporter Donald Trump is expected to attend the event, along with other major public figures.
The President of the United States has appeared at several UFC events over the past two years, often sitting ringside with Dana White.
Israel Adesanya said his interest in the fight will depend on how the atmosphere is created and whether the card contains the energy of a live crowd.
His comments reflect a sentiment shared by several boxers who want the occasion to remain focused on fans and athletes rather than politics.
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