Donald Trump turns the White House into a construction site for UFC octagon and ballroom

Donald Trump has stripped away the historic elegance of the White House following his directive to transform the famous building into a construction zone for the installation of a Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Octagon and ballroom within the East Wing.

Set for June 14 - coinciding with Mr Trump's 80th birthday - UFC Freedom 250 forms part of broader commemorations marking 250 years since American independence from Great Britain.

While the occasion aims to elevate the Trump administration's profile, numerous Americans are questioning why the president is devoting substantial resources to this venture during ongoing conflict with Iran.

UFC commentator and podcasting heavyweight Joe Rogan has raised concerns about hosting an open-air spectacle in Washington DC during summer months, when temperatures regularly exceed 32C with nightly highs around 22C.

Mr Rogan stated: "How are you going to stop the bugs. There's a lot of bugs. Pesticide the s*** out of the place? I just don't think you should compete in a world championship fight in a non-controlled environment. It should be inside an air-conditioned arena."

However, Mr Trump's ambitions for these combat spectacles may face a submission hold following a federal lawsuit lodged against the National Park Service and Department of the Interior seeking an emergency injunction to prevent the event.

Any potential injunction won't remedy the White House's present condition, with the East Wing and South Lawn currently resembling little more than a construction site.

Mr Trump provoked outrage after revealing proposals for a new ballroom and subsequently bringing demolition equipment to one of America's most cherished historical sites.

The US President argued the new ballroom was essential for security purposes and would enhance Washington DC's standing, reports the Mirror.

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