UFC to Make Historic Debut at White House; French Star Says 'No Politics, Focus on Fight'

French mixed martial arts star Ciryl Gane says he will put political noise aside ahead of an unprecedented fight at the White House in Washington. According to AFP, Gane will face Brazilian fighter Alex Pereira in a special bout at the White House on June 14, which is U.S. President Donald Trump's 80th birthday. The event is also part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Many view the entire event as a political stunt, but Gane told AFP he will ignore the criticism and focus on his fight. However, he admitted it will be a unique experience, much like his visit to the White House a few weeks ago. Gane told AFP: "It's an amazing feeling. Thanks to our job, we are used to doing incredible things." "But this is really special because we know not everyone can get into that place." "Leaving France and arriving at (Trump's) office the next day, thinking that people all over the world will see me standing behind him, feels a bit surreal." Gane said the political aspect is just part of the fight. "I have no choice but to ignore it. I'm not someone who takes a political stance," he stressed. "This is a fantastic stage for MMA, so we have to go along with it. We never get involved in politics, but we have the opportunity to be exposed to the world's eyes, and we must seize it."