WASHINGTON — Diplomats will sign at least one memorandum of understanding this week.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and UFC CEO Dana White have reached an agreement to use cage fights for diplomacy, the State Department said Monday — as Iran peace talks remain in flux.
The MOU was announced as President Trump prepares to host an iconic mixed martial arts match Sunday on the White House lawn.
Rubio and White will sign the agreement Thursday afternoon at the State Department ahead of the seven-fight event at the White House.
The agreement will “mark a new public-private partnership to enhance sports diplomacy initiatives and collaborate on the global growth of mixed martial arts,” the department said in a press release.
“As an American-founded organization, the UFC has grown into a major global sports platform, reflecting US leadership in modern combat sports promotion, athletic performance standards, and international event production,” the statement said.
“Its events are broadcast worldwide and contribute to the United States’ broader cultural and sports influence through professional competition and athlete development.”
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It’s unclear what exactly the MOU will entail.
The term memorandum of understanding has dominated international headlines for weeks due to negotiations between the US and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as a step toward ending the more than three-month war.
That MOU has been subject to continued wrangling, including over the sanctions relief and the final status of Iran’s nuclear program.
The State Department’s eagerness to use UFC for bridge-building purposes reflects the 33-year-old organization’s international following.
Six of the 14 fighters who will appear at the White House are foreign, including Ilia Topuria of Georgia, who will face off against American Justin Gaethje, a frequent fan favorite, for the lightweight title.
Alex Pereira of Brazil will fight Ciryl Gane of France for the heavyweight interim title.
White, a friend of Trump’s, has hosted the president at other fights and has relished the high-stakes show with the executive mansion as a backdrop.
The UFC has erected a massive steel structure to illuminate an improvised octagon fight ring just outside the White House’s southern exit.
The unusual event will take place Sunday on Trump’s 80th birthday, though it officially is kicking off celebrations of the country’s 250th’s anniversary ahead of July 4.
