Published on: September 27, 2025, at 07:43h.
Updated on: September 27, 2025, at 07:43h.
After a four-year hiatus from the Octagon, Conor McGregor’s request for $100 million to compete in next year’s UFC event at the White House is sure to catch attention.
McGregor’s Big Demand
$100 million for a fight at the White House, plus 100 U.S. “Golden Visas” for myself, family, and friends. I am excited to entertain the fighting community again, an opportunity I cherish!
This is McGregor’s message on X. The UFC is collaborating with the U.S. government to create a temporary venue for 5,000 spectators, hosting a UFC competition on the White House grounds as part of the nation’s 250th birthday events next summer.
Following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement in July, McGregor swiftly showed his keen interest in participating. Thousands more will gather in a nearby park, where large screens and live performances will enhance the experience.
Event on the White House Lawn
UFC President Dana White shared design concepts for the live event during a recent appearance on Fox News.
“I envision a grand arch with lighting because I want the spectacular view of the White House at the back. As the fight progresses, the Washington Monument will also be in view,” White elaborated.
Golden Visa Insight
The “Golden Visas” McGregor mentioned are likely part of Trump’s immigration Gold Card initiative, which has recently seen the application fee drop from $5 million to $1 million, allowing expedited residency for those who qualify.
McGregor has shown interest in battling Michael Chandler, who also expressed his enthusiasm for facing off against McGregor during a Fox News interview.
McGregor hasn’t fought in the UFC since suffering a leg injury in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. Although he’d planned to return against Chandler at UFC 303 in June 2024, he had to withdraw due to a toe injury. Over his last four UFC appearances, he has lost three times.
In the end, McGregor’s endeavors have included promoting a Prime Video series with Jake Gyllenhaal and exploring ventures like whisky and cigars, even hinting at a run for the Irish presidency. White mentioned last week that he and McGregor have had frequent discussions, suggesting the possibility of this collaboration materializing.
UFC 320: Sandhagen Discusses O’Malley Challenge
Cory Sandhagen, currently ranked No. 4 in the bantamweight division, is focused on a title fight against champion Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 320.
Top-ranked bantamweight Sean O’Malley discussed his upcoming match on his “BrO’Malley Show” podcast. He also contemplated future bouts with Sandhagen, even expressing interest in participating in the White House UFC event.
“If Cory wins at UFC 320 and I take care of my next opponent, that becomes an interesting match-up. I want to compete within the next few months and be ready for that event. Whether it’s the Sphere event or the White House card, these are iconic occasions,” he noted.
Bantamweight Title Discussion
In contrast, Sandhagen seemed less enthusiastic in a CBS Sports interview.
“I believe that Umar and Yan currently deserve a title shot more than I do,” Sandhagen stated. “I aim to remain an active champion. This fight is scheduled for October, and I would like to face [Petr] Yan or Umar [Nurmagomedov] early next year. Once I secure a win against one of them, we’ll consider our options for the summer event, which could involve O’Malley or Yan or Umar.
“I think a matchup between O’Malley and me at the White House would be amazing. I hope he secures a couple of victories because he’s trailed off lately.”