Sean Strickland claims he was banned from attending UFC White House card

Sean Strickland claims he has been banned from attending the UFC's scheduled White House event on June 14, citing his public criticism of President Donald Trump and his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The UFC middleweight champion, known for his outspoken social media presence, posted on Instagram alleging that his barred attendance stems directly from his vocal opposition to U.S.–Israel policy. "UFC at the White House with [Benjamin Netanyahu] in the audience. Straight slop," Strickland wrote, adding that he was told he could not attend. "The only male American champ banned at the White House because I said Trump is owned by [Benjamin Netanyahu]." When pressed on specifics, Strickland said he had made jokes about Israel and referenced Jeffrey Epstein.

The UFC has maintained that the White House event will operate with limited, invitation-only attendance and no public ticket sales. The promotion has not officially confirmed or denied Strickland's ban claim, leaving ambiguity around whether he was formally excluded or simply chose not to attend.

Strickland's criticism comes despite his earlier public support for Trump's 2024 re-election bid. His recent rhetoric has shifted sharply, focusing on what he views as Trump's alignment with Israeli interests. He appears committed to continuing his criticism regardless of the attendance situation, framing the matter as a free-speech issue tied to his relationship with the current administration.