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May 31, 2026, 4:15 PM CUT

Scott Jennings Disputes the Fitness Rules for the Trump UFC Event

Trump’s UFC event sparked debate as reports of strict fitness requirements for attendees began circulating. Political analyst and commentator Scott Jennings commented on the matter, saying that it was blown wildly out of proportion. However, his remarks only added another layer to the controversy that was already surrounding the event.

A report by The Washington Post revealed that the Pentagon is actively looking to recruit “hundreds of troops” for the much-awaited cage-fighting event on June 14. However, it is mentioned that the service members are required to bear their own travel costs, be in uniform, and “MUST MEET CURRENT WAIST-HEIGHT RATIO and current physical fitness standard.”

When questioned about the same, Jennings reported, “I asked the White House point-blank, 'Is this true?' And I was told, quote, ‘Fake news from The Washington Post,” clearly shutting down the rumors.

Equipment being placed on the South Lawn of the White House before UFC fight as part of America 250 celebrations, May 26, 2026 [Mark Schiefelbein/AP Photo]

In response, Kaitlan Collins from CNN read out the part of the memo that clearly states what is expected of the attendees- “waist-to-height ratio standard of less than 0.55, as well as all service-specific physical fitness test requirements.”

However, Jennings was quick to respond. He insisted, “Well, look, I know the military has standards on physical fitness. Beyond that, I don’t know what to say about it other than the White House says they’re happy to have military members come to this awesome event at the White House.”

He also emphasized how Trump’s UFC Freedom 250 event was a combined celebration of American independence and his 80th birthday.

Several viewers, including podcast host Joe Rogan, are cynical about the event. They feel that the outdoor event might be “kind of a gimmick.” This has many pondering on the symbolism of Trump hosting the event at the White House.

Why Trump Wants a UFC Fight at the White House

According to MMA Fighting, Trump revealed that his decision to host a UFC fight at the White House had a lot to do with his close friendship with Dana White, UFC CEO.

“Does anybody watch UFC?” Trump said to his supporters in attendance. “The great Dana White. We’re going to have a UFC fight on the grounds of the White House. We have a lot of land there.

Dana’s going to do it. Dana’s great, one of a kind. We’re going to have a UFC fight, a championship fight, like a full fight, 20, 25,000 people, and we’re going to do that as part of 250 also."

He also talks about how the event is a part of the America250 celebrations- the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

His notion is further emphasized by the fact that this unique approach combined politics with private entertainment and patriotism.

Whether people are viewing the event as a political spectacle or a celebration is yet to be understood. However, the White House UFC event has already managed to generate a lot of attention.

What is your opinion on the hosting of a UFC fight at the historic White House?

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Written by

Avantika Das

Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil