TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC, says its high-profile fight event at the White House resulted in an approximately $30 million financial loss despite generating significant publicity and new business partnerships.
During an earnings call Monday, TKO Chief Financial Officer Andrew Schleimer said UFC Freedom 250 carried substantially higher expenses than a typical UFC event. The company spent approximately $60 million on production, with sponsorship and partnership revenue helping offset some of those costs.
Executives said the resulting $30 million loss was anticipated as part of the event’s financial plan.
UFC Freedom 250 was held June 14 on the South Lawn of the White House, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s birthday. Trump attended the seven-fight event alongside UFC CEO Dana White.
Unlike traditional UFC events, tickets were not sold to the general public. Approximately 4,000 guests attended, including administration officials, members of Congress, military service members and business leaders.
The lack of ticket revenue contributed to a decline in TKO’s live events and hospitality revenue. The company reported $47.8 million in that category during the second quarter of 2026, compared with $58.5 million during the same period in 2025.
Higher production and athlete expenses also contributed to increased operating costs. TKO reported its adjusted earnings margin declined from 59% in the second quarter of 2025 to 52% during the most recent quarter.
Despite the financial loss, company executives characterized the White House event as a major promotional success.
TKO President and Chief Operating Officer Mark Shapiro said UFC Freedom 250 generated more than $1 billion in estimated earned media value. He also said the event helped the company secure 25 new marketing partners, including several that entered multi-year or multi-event agreements.
White has praised the event but indicated the UFC does not plan to stage another White House fight because of the significant expense involved.
The loss from UFC Freedom 250 did not prevent TKO from posting stronger overall quarterly results. The company reported $303.9 million in net income for the second quarter, up $30.8 million compared with the same quarter in 2025.
