‘UFC Freedom 250’ at the White House: 5 things to watch

Anticipation is building for “UFC Freedom 250,” a prime-time fight night set to play out just steps from the White House and seen as an informal kickoff to the “America 250” celebrations the Trump administration is planning this summer.

The multimillion-dollar project is the latest attempt by President Trump to use sports and entertainment to project strength on a national stage and is serving as a sign of his close ties to the UFC and its fanbase.

Here’s what to watch for on Sunday:

How will the weather pan out?

After a cool spring, the summer heat and humidity arrived in Washington, D.C., this week and the intense weather shows no sign of letting up.

Sunday’s high temperature is expected to reach the low 90s with humidity levels nearing 70 percent by the time the first fights are slated to begin.

The doppler radar has at various points throughout the week shown a moderate chance of scattered storms on Sunday evening, but any precipitation is projected to be short lived and is not expected to disrupt the event, which will be held entirely outdoors.

Sunday’s fights will take place inside a large amphitheater-style arena with black seats and dark interior, creating an environment for it to get toasty with more than 4,000 expected attendees in what will become a confined and potentially raucous space.

Some professional fighting figures, including those usually supportive of the president, have raised concerns about “UFC Freedom 250” taking place in a non-climate-controlled environment, arguing it could impact match outcomes.

“I don’t like the idea of fighting outside at all. There are too many problems with it,” said Joe Rogan, a popular podcaster who will be in attendance as one of the broadcasters for the event. “In June, in DC, we looked it up last year — the same day was 100 degrees.”

“It should be inside an air-conditioned arena,” Rogan continued.

The pundit has also called the event a “gimmick” and a “security nightmare,”........

© The Hill