UFC White House event delayed by lightning as World Cup weather worries loom
The UFC’s special event at the White House, held overnight between Sunday and Monday as part of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations, got underway late because of severe weather. The card was staged before President Donald Trump, only hours after he announced a ceasefire with Iran.
The show opened more than half an hour behind schedule after lightning and rain hit the area. ESPN reporter Ariel Helwani described it as “the worst nightmare” coming true. UFC said it had shelter available if needed, and organizers were already concerned about lightning, mosquitoes, and winds reaching about 48 km/h.
Under standard safety rules, the event began 30 minutes after the last lightning strike. It was unusual because UFC fights were taking place outdoors in open air.
The report noted that similar weather disruptions could affect the 2026 World Cup, which will be played mostly in the United States, especially in the knockout rounds. FIFA has special protocols for those conditions, including stadiums with retractable roofs and weather control measures, and water breaks will also be taken during halves.
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