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By Alice Gibbs
Senior Reporter
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The UFC’s newly unveiled outfits for its “Octagon Girls” at a planned White House fight night have drawn some scrutiny online, with critics arguing the patriotic designs may clash with longstanding U.S. flag etiquette.
The custom red, white and blue outfits—featuring sequins, flag motifs and short skirts—were revealed ahead of the “UFC Freedom 250” event set to take place on the South Lawn as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
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The creator behind the looks is costume designer Marina Toybina. She told Maxim her aim was to create pieces that honored the energy of the brand, and the significance of the 250th anniversary celebration.
“The goal was to blend strength, athleticism, glamour, and American heritage into a wardrobe language that felt sophisticated, powerful, and unmistakably iconic,” she added.
While organizers say the designs aim to blend “sport, spectacle, and celebration,” the reveal has triggered criticism from some viewers who say the execution is overly flashy—or disrespectful.
What the US Flag Code Actually Says
What the U.S. Flag Code Actually Says
The backlash over the UFC outfits centers on the U.S. Flag Code—a set of guidelines that outline how the American flag should be treated.
The key rule critics are pointing to:
- The code states that the flag “should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding or drapery.”
- It also says no part of the flag**“should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform.”**
But here’s the important nuance:
- The Flag Code is not legally enforceable for private citizens.
- It’s considered advisory etiquette, not a law—meaning violating it doesn’t bring penalties.
So do the outfits actually break the rules?
That depends on interpretation:
Defenders’ view:
The designs are inspired by the flag—not literal flags—so they fall into a gray area.
Critics’ view:
The heavy use of stars and stripes in costume-style outfits goes against the spirit of the code.
Opinion Is Split
As the new uniforms were released, the pictures spread quickly, especially after being shared by conservative group Turning Point and others, prompting a wave of reactions.
Some commenters described the designs as “overly patriotic” or “tacky,” while others said they fit the tone of a spectacle designed to celebrate U.S. identity, with some calling the outfits "beautiful" and "patriotic."
Maxim Magazine posted exclusive first looks at the outfits on X.
The outfits—modeled by longtime UFC ring girls Chrissy Blair and Red Dela Cruz—feature embellished fabrics, asymmetrical skirts and high-contrast red, white and blue styling, drawing comparisons to superhero costumes and theatrical stagewear.
Jezebel staff writer Claire Guinan said, "The very concept of ring girls is embarrassing enough, but for a spectacle costing $60 million, their outfits look like they were sourced from a defunct Spirit Halloween."
What Do Ring Girls Normally Wear?
"Ring girls," or "octagon girls," are famously scantily clad, typically donning not much more than a bikini. However, on certain occasions, they have dressed up in costume.
On September 14, 2024, octagon girls wore elaborate Day of the Dead-themed costumes at the Sphere in Las Vegas. The event was titled Noche UFC. It coincided with Mexican Independence Day weekend and served as what UFC President Dana White described as a “love letter to Mexico."
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This Isn’t New: Flag Controversies, Explained
Americans have been arguing about the flag for decades:
- Celeb outfits: Musicians and public figures have been criticized for wearing flag-themed clothing—often accused of crossing the same line the Code warns about. Kid Rock got caught up in it for the American flag suit that he wore to the White House in 2025.
- Politicians: Sarah Palin's campaign bus in 2011 caused a ruckus. Critics argued a large American flag graphic used on her bus blurred the line between patriotism and using the flag for advertising, which the Flag Code discourages.
- Fashion culture: What was once seen as offensive—like flag-print shirts in the 1960s—is now mainstream, but still divisive. Many Olympic costume designs feature flags.
Wider Controversy Around the White House Event
The wardrobe discussion is the latest flashpoint surrounding the high-profile UFC event, which has already generated criticism over its scale, cost and setting on the White House lawn.
The fight card is scheduled to take place on June 14—coinciding with Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s birthday—and is being framed as a centerpiece of wider national celebrations for the 250th anniversary.
What Does the UFC Octagon at the White House Look Like?
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The UFC posted a view from the newly-completed UFC fight ring, including seating, the overhead "claw", and, of course, the White House.
NewsNation Capitol Hill Correspondent Joe Khalil posted a video on X on the morning of June 12 showing a "practice flyover" above the White House ahead of Sunday's UFC event.
What Happens Next
The debate over the outfits is likely just the beginning.
With the UFC “Freedom 250” event set to take place on the White House grounds as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, attention is expected to intensify—not just on the fights, but on the spectacle surrounding them.
UPDATE: 6/12/26 7:18: This article was updated to include quotes from Toybina.
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