Fact Check: Does the viral image show White House before and after UFC arena construction?

WASHINGTON, DC: Ahead of the much-awaited UFC fight, an image is circulating on social media platforms showing two images of the White House South Lawn before and after the Trump administration started building a UFC structure, sparking criticisms and speculations about its authenticity. Let us analyze and fact-check the viral image.

Claim: Viral pair of photos claims to show White House before and after UFC structure 

The viral image shows a pair of photos claiming to show the White House South Lawn before and after the Trump administration started building a UFC structure, ahead of the much-awaited event scheduled to host celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the US.

The ‘before’ image shows a neatly trimmed green lawn in front of the historic structure, while the ‘after’ image shows that same lawn paved over with a massive structure and bleachers.

The image has spread on Facebook, X, and Threads, garnering hundreds of thousands of views, with many appearing to believe it to be real.

Fact Check: The photos are fake 

However, the before and after images of the White House are fake, as evident from the real fountain near the actual South Lawn incorrectly placed too close to the building. The image also placed the Washington Monument to the North of the White House, while it's actually in the south.

The photos also incorrectly depicted the road at the bottom of the South Lawn, curving it down instead of up toward the White House.

The glaring geographical mistakes suggested that it was made using Artificial Intelligence.

The authentic images of the White House show that the Trump administration had not paved over the South Lawn to construct the UFC structure, nor had the administration built any bleachers.

White House prepares for historic UFC event 

As the White House is soon to host flying fists and UFC title fights, the transformation is already underway. Crews work around the clock to build a massive 90-foot domed arch and a staging area that will anchor a temporary UFC arena on the White House South Lawn. 

While the White House has hosted everything from pickup games to recreational competitions, the upcoming UFC event will make history as the first professional sporting showcase held at the presidential residence.

The landmark event is set for June 14, a date that not only commemorates America's 250th year of independence but also coincides with President Donald Trump's birthday.