Fighter and Donald Trump fan Sean Strickland is skipping the president’s upcoming White House Ultimate Fighting Championship event — because he doesn’t want to hang out with “the Epstein list.”
Strickland, once a vocal Trump supporter who voted for him and took public photos with him, has significantly distanced himself from Trump’s orbit in recent months. During a workout, when asked about participating in the White House event, Strickland responded: “If there was some kind of inclusion for fans I’d be more [inclined], but just to go hang out with the Epstein list? I’m good dog. I’m good, dude.”
The UFC event is planned as part of celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary. Trump announced: “On Flag Day, we will have a one-of-a-kind UFC event here at the White House. It’ll be the greatest champion fighters in the world, all fighting that same night. The great Dana White is hosting, and it’s going to be something special.”
White House spokesperson Steven Cheung called it “one of the greatest and most historic sports events in history” and “a testament to his vision to celebrate America’s monumental 250th anniversary.”
Strickland’s principal objection concerns limited public access. He stated: “I’d be down, dude… if there was some kind of inclusion from fans.” He referenced a fighter who expressed discomfort competing “in front of billionaires,” noting the sentiment resonated with him.
But Strickland’s withdrawal reflects his evolving political stance. In August, he drew a line regarding MAGA’s ties to Israel and AIPAC-supported candidates, writing: “I can’t believe I’m saying this but I will vote for a Democrat over an aipac Republican candidate. Four years of a Democrat sounds easier than a politician owned by a foreign government.”
His position contrasts sharply with November 2024, when he posted a photo with Trump captioned “Absolute legend! Can’t wait to see the next four years.”
As a former middleweight champion and one of the country’s top male fighters, Strickland holds significant influence within the MMA community.
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