White House prepares for UFC Freedom 250 - in pictures

White House prepares for UFC Freedom 250 - in picturesImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Illia Topuria (left) is undefeated in 17 fights in mixed martial arts Published15 minutes agoVisitors to the White House have been greeted by a much-changed landscape over the past couple of weeks as preparations for UFC Freedom 250 come together.On Sunday evening in Washington DC, Illia Topuria will defend his UFC lightweight title against Justin Gaethje on the South Lawn of the historic centre of American power.The event marks 250 years of American Independence and also falls on President Donald Trump's 80th birthday.Construction on a hulking structure, nicknamed 'the claw', began in May with workers assembling domed arches over a staging area which will become the octagon.An unprecedented event has already thrown up countless picture-worthy moments - here are some of the most eye-catching.UFC structure towers over White HouseImage source, Getty ImagesTrump compared structure to Eiffel TowerImage source, Getty ImagesThe National Guard are helping with securityImage source, Getty ImagesTemporary stands assembled on South LawnImage source, ReutersFighters to walk to the octagon from the Oval OfficeImage source, Getty ImagesStreet views of the octagon are restrictedImage source, Getty ImagesTopuria and Gaethje headline UFC Freedom 250Image source, Getty ImagesTrump has been teasing plans over recent weeksImage source, Getty ImagesA commemorative belt has been created for the eventImage source, Getty ImagesTo play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.This video can not be playedFigure caption, Most famous person on Justin Gaethje's phone?Related topicsMixed Martial ArtsMMA schedule and results 2026Published17 MayWatch every Born to Brawl episodePublished28 April 2024More MMA from the BBCNotifications, social media and more with BBC SportPublished2 days ago