A recent national survey shows limited public support for President Donald Trump’s proposal to stage mixed martial arts competition at the White House, with most Americans expressing disapproval of the controversial plan.
According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, merely 16% of respondents believe it would be suitable for Trump to organize the Ultimate Fighting Championship event, which is set to coincide with his 80th birthday celebration. Nearly half of those surveyed, 46%, deemed the idea unsuitable, while the remainder provided no response.
Republican support proved surprisingly weak, with only 31% backing the proposal despite Trump maintaining approximately 80% approval among party members for his presidential performance overall, the six-day survey that ended Monday revealed.
The mixed martial arts event represents part of Trump’s broader series of public festivities commemorating the 250th anniversary of America’s independence declaration from Britain on July 4, 1776. These planned celebrations have generated debate, with multiple musical acts withdrawing from the opening ceremony due to concerns about Trump’s involvement.
On Tuesday, Trump’s legal team requested a federal judge dismiss attempts to block the UFC competition after area residents challenged the event, claiming sporting activities violate South Lawn regulations and the massive metal structure being built for the matches lacks proper permits.
The competition will feature athletes wearing minimally padded gloves who will strike opponents using hands, feet, knees and elbows within a 92-foot-tall octagon-shaped enclosure.
Survey data showed 18% of respondents identified as mixed martial arts enthusiasts, trailing behind basketball fans at 31% and slightly ahead of U.S. soccer followers at 16%.
The nationwide online Reuters/Ipsos survey included 4,531 American adults and carried a 2 percentage point margin of error.
Trump’s relationship with UFC extends to the early 2000s, when he permitted events at his now-defunct Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. UFC Chief Executive Dana White maintains a close relationship with Trump.
