This Saturday, the White House unveiled stunning visuals of the newly renovated reflective pool at the Lincoln Memorial, perfectly timed for the UFC Freedom 250 event scheduled for Sunday on the South Lawn of the presidential residence and the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
The official video, shared on the White House's social media account, showcases hundreds of attendees gathered at the National Mall. The octagon, bathed in blue and red lights, stands prominently in front of the White House, with a dramatic double rainbow gracing the Washington Monument in the background.
"Fight night energy has taken over Washington. UFC Freedom 250 is nearly here," proclaimed the White House's official account.
Commentator Eric Daugherty described the scene as one of the most epic lead-ups to the event, noting that "President Trump's reflective pool was completed just in time" and predicting it would be "one of the greatest sporting events in U.S. history."
The Controversial Renovation
However, the pool's renovation has not been without controversy. Trump directed that the original 1923 granite bottom be coated with industrial-grade blue paint, which he dubbed "American flag blue."
Initially, the project was announced in April with a cost of $1.5 million, but the New York Times estimated it at $13.1 million, while the White House placed the figure around $10 million.
Shortly after the pool was filled, green algae began to surface, sparking criticism on social media. Brianne Chapman remarked, "The reflective pool is VERY green and VERY gross." The Department of the Interior referred to the algae as "residual" from the construction period.
Laurence Boorstein pointed out on social media that Trump employed the same company that maintains his Mar-a-Lago pool for the job, adding that "the green algae are resurfacing."
Historic Sporting Event at the White House
The UFC Freedom 250 marks the first professional sporting event held at the U.S. presidential residence, part of the 250th-anniversary celebrations of the nation's independence. The main card features a lightweight title bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje, as well as an interim heavyweight title fight between Ciryl Gane and Alex Pereira.
UFC President Dana White estimated the event's total cost could reach $60 million. The organization also agreed to pay $700,000 to restore the White House lawn post-event. A federal judge dismissed a request for an injunction to prevent the festivities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the event on Friday as a gift to the American people and a means of showcasing American culture to the world. The event will be broadcast on Paramount+ starting at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.
Frequently Asked Questions about the UFC Freedom 250 Event
What is the significance of the UFC Freedom 250 event?
The UFC Freedom 250 is significant as it is the first professional sporting event held at the U.S. presidential residence, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the nation's independence.
Why was the reflective pool renovation controversial?
The renovation was controversial due to the high costs, estimated between $10 million and $13.1 million, and the appearance of green algae shortly after completion, which drew public criticism.
Who are the main fighters in the UFC Freedom 250 event?
The main card features a lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje and an interim heavyweight title bout between Ciryl Gane and Alex Pereira.