Trump celebrates 80th birthday with White House cage fight

It's either an abomination or a perfect encapsulation of the American spirit, depending who you ask. Perhaps, some might argue, it is both. 

Tensions are high as the Trump administration sets up a cage fight under a 28-metre tall, 600-tonne steel "claw" on the White House lawn, a $60-million US spectacle to mark both Donald Trump's 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The 4,000-plus seating at UFC Freedom 250 is restricted to politicians, celebrities, high-paying sponsors and members of the military — but only those who fit certain physical specifications and aren't busy fighting the U.S. and Israel's war in Iran.

If this is your cup of tea (or your can of Monster energy drink), you can watch the fights on TV. Provided, of course, you pay for Paramount+, a subscription service owned by longtime Trump allies Larry and David Ellison. 

It's already projected to be the most-watched event in the history of mixed martial arts, and people are all riled up. 

UFC supporters have expressed concerns about the potential for extreme heat, bugs and rain at an outdoor event, while two Virginia residents have filed a lawsuit to stop it altogether.

A BTS look at UFC Freedom 250, the White House cage fight

White House spokesperson Davis Ingle, meanwhile, said it will be "one of the greatest and most historic sports events in history." 

Here's what you need to know before the fights start Sunday at 8 p.m. ET. 

The main event is the lightweight title bout, where American interim title holder Justin Gaethje — a fan favourite who has earned the nickname "The Highlight" —  will take on Georgia's undefeated Ilia Topuria. 

Among the six other fights, Brazil's Alex Pereira will face France's