OAN Staff Katherine Mosack
1:42 PM – Friday, June 12, 2026
Country singer Zac Brown has defended his decision to perform the National Anthem at the highly anticipated UFC Freedom 250 event being held at the White House in Washington, D.C.
On a Wednesday episode of “The Pat McAfee Show,” Brown argued that his planned performance was rooted in patriotism and for his love for the country and its service members.
“Man, I’m there for the troops, man,” he said, noting that about 8,000 active service members are expected to be in attendance on Sunday. “I’m there to honor America.”
He also pushed back against the political division that led to backlash over his decision to perform at the event on Sunday.
“This is patriotism, not politics for me,” he continued. “I mean, f*** all the division. I don’t believe in that. I love this country. I love all the people that have sacrificed so that I can live my American dream and that everyone that lives here gets a chance to do that if they work hard, make the right decisions.”
Brown also revealed that he’s a “massive UFC fan,” and that it’s his favorite sport.
“I’m honored that Dana [White] has given me the opportunity to do this,” he added.
The “Chicken Fried” singer is slated to perform on Saturday at the ceremonial weigh-in at The Ellipse, the public park near the White House. He will also sing the national anthem at the seven-bout match on Sunday, accompanied by the Marine Band, the oldest professional musical organization in the United States.
Additionally, Brown emphasized the historic nature of the mixed martial arts (MMA) event, which is being billed as a celebration to mark the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.
“I’m so so excited for this weekend and it’s history, man. Getting to be part of American history, man,” he said. “Having the first sporting event that’s on the lawn of the White House. I mean, it’s an honor.”
The South Lawn of the executive residence is decked out with a massive, red, white and blue structure called “the claw” arching over the fighting cage, the Octagon.
Earlier this week, the UFC released a first look at its patriotic costumes for the Octagon girls, who will be present at the events over the weekend, including the ceremonial weigh-ins and Sunday’s historic fight card.
UFC Freedom 250, the Trump administration’s latest American birthday celebration, will also mark Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.
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