In a groundbreaking move, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UFC CEO Dana White have forged a partnership to employ cage fighting as a diplomatic tool, according to a State Department announcement on Monday. This collaboration comes just days before President Trump is set to host seven mixed martial arts bouts on the White House lawn.
Stay updated with The Post’s live coverage for the latest insights into President Trump and national political developments.
This Thursday, Rubio and White are scheduled to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, establishing a “new public-private partnership aimed at boosting sports diplomacy initiatives and fostering the global expansion of mixed martial arts,” the State Department revealed.

The partnership also signifies a step toward further legitimizing the UFC. White spearheaded the creation of a large steel arena adjacent to the White House, where the fights will occur on Sunday, coinciding with Trump’s 80th birthday. This event also serves as a prelude to the celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary on July 4th.