Sunday’s UFC cage match at the White House featured a military band, flyovers, notable spectators, bloody bouts, fireworks — and a pair of uniformed Arlington County police officers.
The officers escorted one of the fighters to the Octagon, as noted by UFC in a social media post (below) and captured in a Getty Images photo.
Steve Garcia makes his way to the Octagon with Arlington First Responders: Daniel Ohr & Christopher Feltman!#UFCWhiteHouse LIVE NOW on @ParamountPlus!
[ UFC Freedom 250 Presented by @Cryptocom & @RamTrucks ]
— UFC (@ufc) June 15, 2026
In response to inquiries from readers, ARLnow asked ACPD about the officers’ involvement. Their participation, the department said, was part of a recognition of 9/11 first responders at the event.
ACPD’s full statement to ARLnow, with links added, is below.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a non-profit established in memory of FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller who died on September 11, 2001, invited 9-11 first responders from New York and Arlington along with other public safety officials and Medal of Honor recipients from across the United States to participate in the event to honor and recognize their service. Both ACPD members are 9/11 first responders to the attack at the Pentagon and continue their service to the Arlington community.
As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, ACPD remains steadfast in our commitment to honoring all the lives lost in the terrorist attacks and honoring the service and sacrifice of all first responders to this tragic incident. ACPD has lost two incredible officers, Corporal Harvey Snook (2016) and Corporal Barry Foust (2026), to 9/11-related cancer due to their response to the terrorist attack at the Pentagon.
More on the Sunday night fight from the Associated Press:
Donald Trump hosted a UFC event on the White House Lawn for his 80th birthday. Fighters from around the world joined the celebration, marking a unique moment for the sport. The event called Freedom 250 featured seven fights and celebrated the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence’s signing. UFC President Dana White and Trump enjoyed chants of “USA! USA!” as they watched the action. Bo Nickal won his match and thanked Trump for the opportunity. The event highlighted the close relationship between Trump and White, with thousands of fans attending, including notable figures like Mark Zuckerberg.
