Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UFC President and CEO Dana White will sign a memorandum of understanding Thursday afternoon establishing a new public-private partnership to enhance sports diplomacy.
“UFC is the world’s leading mixed martial arts organization. As an American-founded organization, the UFC has grown into a major global sports platform, reflecting U.S. leadership in modern combat sports promotion, athletic performance standards, and international event production,” the State Department wrote in a press release. “Its events are broadcast worldwide and contribute to the United States’ broader cultural and sports influence through professional competition and athlete development.”
The signing ceremony comes just days before Sunday’s “UFC 250” fight on the South Lawn of the White House — just one event celebrating the U.S.’s 250th anniversary. The day also marks President Trump’s 80th birthday.
The event at the State Department is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. EDT.
