World Liberty Financial, a crypto company linked to the Trump family, has confirmed that up to $250,000 in bonuses will be awarded to fighters during the UFC Freedom 250 event using its USD1 stablecoin. This event took place on the White House lawn, marking a significant occasion as part of the country’s semquincentennial celebrations.
Prior to the event, UFC had announced similar plans to distribute bonuses in USD1, which is pegged to the US dollar. Following a surge, the stablecoin's price crossed $1 on June 12, reflecting a trading volume increase of more than 93% within 24 hours, reaching $2.38 billion according to CoinMarketCap.
Criticism of the UFC Freedom 250 event has been vocal, particularly concerning its hefty $60 million budget. The Democratic National Committee has condemned the use of presidential influence for financial gain associated with the Trump family. World Liberty Financial, launched in 2024, has faced scrutiny amid corruption allegations and is currently pursuing a national trust charter with the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.