Israel Adesanya has made his stance clear on the upcoming UFC White House event, saying he would take part but only if real fans are allowed to attend.
UFC middleweight star Israel Adesanya has been asked whether he would consider fighting on the White House card backed by current U.S. President Donald Trump.
The White House event, set to be organised by UFC CEO Dana White later this year, has already drawn major attention. It is expected to feature some of the promotion's top names as part of the sport's historic visit to Washington, D.C.
Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC
Speaking on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, Israel Adesanya said he wouldn't decline the opportunity to compete, but stressed that the UFC should make sure genuine supporters of the sport can attend.
He explained that fighting in front of politicians or guests unfamiliar with MMA would not capture the spirit of the event.
"I wouldn't say no, but I hope there are some fans there — like actual MMA fans," Adesanya said. "I don't really want to fight in front of a bunch of suits who don't really care about MMA. I want fans to be able to go to the fight and watch the show as well. Yeah, I wouldn't say no."
While open to the idea, the former champion said his biggest concern was fighting in front of an audience that might not truly appreciate the sport.
His comments come after UFC CEO Dana White confirmed plans for the White House card to be finalised in February.
The event will be the first of its kind and is viewed as a significant moment for the sport's mainstream visibility in the United States.
Donald Trump, a long-time supporter of mixed martial arts, is expected to attend the event alongside other major public figures.
The U.S. President has been a visible presence at several UFC events over the past two years, often sitting alongside Dana White at ringside.
Israel Adesanya said his interest in competing would depend on how the atmosphere is built and whether the card includes the energy of a live crowd.
His comments reflect the sentiment shared by several fighters who want the occasion to remain focused on fans and athletes, not politics.
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