UFC Star Berates White House Event For Billionaires and Politicians: “Seems like Hunger Games”

Flyweight contender Brandon Royval focuses on competition over spectacle as the UFC prepares its historic 2026 White House card.

UFC Star Berates White House Event For Billionaires and Politicians: “Seems like Hunger Games”

Brandon Royval goes off on the UFC White House event (via MMA Fighting, Business Insider)

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Many of the UFC’s top fighters across divisions are reportedly eyeing a spot on the promotion’s historic White House card set for 2026. The event, marking a symbolic fusion of sports and politics, has become one of the most anticipated spectacles in combat sports history. As athletes campaign for inclusion on the card, Brandon Royval’s contrasting stance has drawn attention for going against the current trend.

The idea for the monumental event took shape when Donald Trump announced plans for a special UFC card as part of the United States’ 250th Anniversary of Independence. Dana White later confirmed the initiative, emphasizing its scale and significance. He is reportedly preparing an elaborate fight week in Washington, D.C., complete with fan events and exhibitions leading up to the main card.

White has clarified that official talks with fighters will not begin until February 2026, yet the competition for slots has already intensified. Big names like Jon Jones, Conor McGregor, and Michael Chandler are reportedly among those eager to secure a place due to the unparalleled historical importance of the venue. Amid this wave of interest, Royval’s remarks stand out as a sharp departure from the enthusiasm.

Oh no, I don’t give a **** about fighting at the ******* White House. I want to fight in front of big crowds, bro. It’s like, how big can the White House even have to a stadium? Is that **** outside too? I don’t give a **** about any of our political figures right now, and to fight in front of them just seems like some Hunger Games type of ****. I don’t give a **** to fight in front of a bunch of ******* billionaires and rich people that could give a **** less about me.

Brandon Royval via In The Arena MMA

The UFC CEO has also revealed plans for an exclusive setup accommodating only around 5,000 attendees near the Octagon on the South Lawn. To expand accessibility, large screens and Jumbotrons will be positioned throughout the grounds, enabling thousands more to witness the fights in real time. The arrangement marks one of the smallest in-person audiences for a modern UFC event.

Royval competes in the flyweight division and holds a professional MMA record of 17-8-0. He has secured victories over prominent opponents, including Kai Kara-France, Brandon Moreno, and Matheus Nicolau, which have underscored his rising status. However, Royval’s last bout at UFC 317 ended in a unanimous decision for ‘Raw Dawg’.

Royval is set to face Manel Kape in December 2025, a matchup that could have major implications for the flyweight title race. As he readies for that crucial contest, anticipation surrounding the UFC’s White House card continues to rise. The contrast between Brandon Royval’s focus on competition and the promotion’s push for large-scale spectacle reflects the evolving balance between sport and entertainment.

UFC community reacts to Brandon Royval’s comments on the White House event

Jon Jones is one of the biggest stars in UFC history, and he has made it clear he wants a place on the prestigious White House event planned for 2026. His enthusiasm for the card reflected how major fighters see it as a legacy opportunity. In contrast, Brandon Royval’s dismissive comments about the spectacle have sparked debate for taking a very different stance.

Brandon Royval
Brandon Royval (via MMA Fighting)

Fans online appear sharply divided over Royval’s remarks. Some are praising his authenticity and agreeing that the focus should remain on real fans and competition, rather than on political figures or billionaires. Others are pointing out that high-profile personalities attend nearly every major UFC card, arguing that such exposure is part of what makes a fighter’s career.

Sean Strickland later backed Royval’s perspective, praising him for expressing views that many fighters might avoid sharing openly. His support amplified the discussion around how athletes view the growing spectacle surrounding the UFC. Together, their stance highlights the ongoing divide between those who welcome the sport’s entertainment-driven evolution and those who remain committed to competition.

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