US star Gaethje wins at Trump's UFC White House show

Trump watched the event octagon-side alongside White, while the United States Marine Band serenaded fighters during their walkouts, which started from inside the White House.

Gaethje started his walkout in the Oval Office, where he took a moment to soak in the occasion, before walking past portraits of previous US presidents.

Topuria, who is a former champion at featherweight before he moved up to claim the lightweight belt, struggled to impose the power he has shown in previous bouts as Gaethje traded shots in the first round.

Although Topuria dropped Gaethje with a number of stinging body shots in the second round, the American took control from there, to the delight of the fans at octagon-side and 85,000 watching in the nearby Ellipse park.

He knocked Topuria down with a huge right hand and continued to punish him with uppercuts and knees, causing his opponent's bloodied face to start to swell.

The doctor was called in to look at Topuria before the fourth round, and although he bravely fought on, his corner retired him before the final round with the 29-year-old unable to take any more damage.

Victory means Gaethje, who is considered one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history, claimed his first undisputed title at the third attempt as he was rewarded with a commemorative red, white and blue belt.

"I am made for this moment, this sport was made for me. I'm the most exciting guy that's ever been in this cage," he added.

Image caption,

Justin Gaethje has won 28 of his 33 professional fights

Gane ends Pereira's three-belt dream

After winning titles at middleweight and light-heavyweight, Pereira was looking to make UFC history with a title in a third division but was outclassed by Gane.

Gane, 36, has navigated numerous fights throughout his career with his fluid movement and it once again paid dividends against Pereira.

After hurting the Brazilian with jabs and body kicks in the first round before escaping out of harm's way, Gane landed the decisive strike.

As Pereira stepped in, Gane dropped the 38-year-old with a perfectly timed jab and although he got back to his feet, the referee waved off the contest as the Frenchman overwhelmed his dazed opponent.

Victory meant Gane became a two-time interim heavyweight champion in his first fight since a bout against British champion Tom Aspinall in October.

That fight was deemed a no contest because of repeated eye pokes from Gane which left Aspinall unable to continue, and he called for a rematch in October.

"I just want to see thank you to Dana and the UFC, thank you to Pereira," said Gane.