Additional Coverage:
The aftermath of the UFC’s temporary arena on the White House South Lawn is now unmistakably visible, as dismantling efforts have wrapped up.
Since June 15, just a day after UFC Freedom 250, crews have been busy tearing down the custom-built 4,300-seat arena. The structure featured a towering 87-foot metal dome dubbed “The Claw,” an elaborate lighting rig, and, naturally, the iconic octagon at its center.
Nearby, the Ellipse, which hosted a two-day fan event attracting roughly 85,000 visitors over June 13-14, has also been cleared. Both sites now reveal large swaths of dried, patchy grass where these massive installations once stood.
On the South Lawn itself, workers have begun removing the temporary flooring that had compressed the grass beneath the octagon and seating areas. The damage is evident: vast brown patches have replaced what was once lush green turf, signaling the need for extensive restoration.
Before the event, UFC CEO Dana White candidly admitted that fixing the grass would cost around $700,000, acknowledging, “we’re going to f— up the South Lawn.” Recent images suggest his prediction was accurate.
However, restoration efforts have received a boost thanks to ScottsMiracle-Gro, the Ohio-based lawn care giant. The company, which boasts approximately $3.3 billion in annual sales and is led by a supporter of President Donald Trump, has pledged $1 million to help rehabilitate the lawn.
In collaboration with the National Park Service-responsible for the upkeep of the grounds-ScottsMiracle-Gro will supply custom White House turfgrass and expert care. Their plan includes re-sodding the lawn with a unique turfgrass blend personally chosen by President Trump. This formula aims to improve the lawn’s density, durability, color, and overall health, tailored to the specific conditions and heavy use the South Lawn experiences.
While these measures offer a promising path to recovery, the fact remains that the South Lawn sustained significant damage due to the UFC event, a reality many Americans are keen to keep top of mind moving forward.