Trump sparks debate after teasing UFC arena could stay permanently at White House

US President Donald Trump has suggested that the giant UFC lighting structure being built on the White House South Lawn could remain there permanently after an upcoming fight event.

In a TikTok video posted on Tuesday, Trump compared the UFC “Claw” to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which was initially meant to be temporary.

“Many don’t know that in Paris, France, the Eiffel Tower — 1889 it was built. It was supposed to be taken down immediately after the World’s Fair, and then they said, ‘You know, we sorta like it, let’s leave it up a little bit longer.’ Well, they never took it down,” Trump said.

“And, you know, we’re building something in front of the White House that’s quite attractive to a lot of people,” he added. “It’s going to have the big UFC fight on June 14, and I’m looking at it — and maybe we’ll never, ever take it down.”

The structure is being installed ahead of a UFC event scheduled for Flag Day, which also falls on Trump’s 80th birthday.

The massive setup, decorated in American flag colours, is taller than the White House and has temporarily disrupted Marine One operations on the South Lawn.

UFC chief executive Dana White recently confirmed the organisation is covering construction costs, including an estimated $700,000 to replace the lawn afterwards.

The White House has heavily promoted the event across social media platforms.