Meet Donald Trump’s Favorite UFC Fighter: What He Says About the Honor

Donald Trump’s reported favorite UFC fighter, Derrick Lewis, has been added to the UFC’s Freedom 250 card at the White House on June 14, after UFC president Dana White said the president personally asked why Lewis was not included. The event is set to take place on the South Lawn of the White House and will feature a main event between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.

Lewis, who is 41, said he was focused on the fight itself and not on Trump’s praise. He said he was simply grateful for the chance to compete at the White House, calling it a dream come true and something he never expected to experience in his career. Lewis also reacted lightly to comments from his opponent Josh Hokit, who mocked him during the buildup, saying he could not hear everything being said because of his age.

According to White, Trump made the request after noticing Lewis was missing from the lineup. White said he stepped away during a livestream, called Lewis, and asked whether he wanted to fight on the White House card. White said Lewis immediately agreed and thanked the president for the opportunity.

White later explained that Hokit’s recent performance also helped make the matchup happen. Hokit beat the No. 5-ranked fighter in the world, Curtis Blaydes, and that prompted renewed interest in finding room on the card. White said the bout between Hokit and Lewis was added in the final minutes before the card was finalized.

White praised both Trump and UFC commentator Joe Rogan for helping shape the event. He said Trump helped build “half” the card, while Rogan helped build the other half. White added that both fighters had accepted the matchup, allowing the UFC to make one more addition to the White House lineup.

Lewis said the fight is especially meaningful because it will take place on the president’s birthday and at one of the most recognizable buildings in the United States. He said he is happy to be part of such a unique moment and looks forward to what he described as a good night.

The addition of Lewis gives the Freedom 250 another headline bout and highlights the unusual level of direct involvement Trump has had in shaping the White House event. White’s comments suggest the card has been assembled with input from high-profile figures and late changes, reflecting both political symbolism and UFC star power.