Nawrocki arrives in Washington for Trump's birthday UFC gala, bearing a 120-kg marble plaque

The journey and the guest

Polish President Karol Nawrocki departed for Washington on June 13, accompanied by former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Błachowicz. Błachowicz posted a photo with Nawrocki in front of the presidential aircraft, expressing astonishment at attending the 250th anniversary of US independence.

When I was learning about Kościuszko and Pułaski in elementary school, I never imagined I'd be part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of US independence. The UFC gala at the White House is an unprecedented event. I'm glad I can keep writing the organization's history, first as its champion, today as a spectator and active fighter.

The White House UFC gala

The event, UFC Freedom 250, commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States and Flag Day, and coincides with President Trump's 80th birthday. A cage arena has been erected on the White House lawn, with space for several thousand guests. Around 85,000 spectators will watch from the nearby Ellipse park. The gala starts at 8 p.m. local time (2 a.m. in Poland). Trump, a known UFC fan and friend of UFC president Dana White, has promoted the event as "the greatest show on Earth".

A marble plaque for Arlington

According to Fakt, Nawrocki will present Trump with a white marble plaque measuring 140 by 100 cm and weighing more than 120 kg. It will be installed on a planned triumphal arch in Arlington. The plaque bears an English inscription and the names of Polish-American heroes Casimir Pulaski and Tadeusz Kościuszko, highlighting their role in the American Revolution. Nawrocki's name also appears. A miniature version will be handed to Trump personally. The US side reportedly hopes other nations will follow with similar gifts.

Bilateral talks on security

Presidential minister Marcin Przydacz confirmed the two leaders will hold a private meeting. Discussions will cover Polish security, bilateral relations, energy and economic cooperation, and, most critically, the permanent stationing of American troops on Polish soil. Nawrocki is also scheduled to meet Senate Majority Leader John Thune on Capitol Hill on June 15 and the Polish community in Florida on June 16.

Public opinion and legal challenge

A Reuters/Ipsos poll published on Thursday shows only 16 percent of Americans find the White House cage fight appropriate, while 46 percent disapprove; even among Republicans, only 31 percent support it. A court petition has been filed to block the event, arguing that sporting events on the White House lawn are prohibited and the arena lacks permits. The administration has asked the court to dismiss the motion.