The Department of Justice is defending a planned UFC event at the White House against legal efforts to halt the proceedings, with officials citing what they describe as a "starkly mismatched balance of harms" in their arguments.

The mixed martial arts event, designated as UFC Freedom 250, is scheduled to take place on the White House South Lawn. The timing of the event coincides with the president's birthday, according to sources familiar with the planning.

Legal challenges have emerged seeking to prevent the event from moving forward, though the specific nature of the objections and the parties involved in the litigation were not detailed in available reports. The Justice Department's defense suggests the government views any potential harm from proceeding with the event as outweighed by other considerations.

Sources indicate the gathering is expected to attract significant interest from donors and may serve as a venue for lobbying activities. The event represents an unusual use of White House grounds for a commercial sporting event.

The legal proceedings are ongoing as organizers continue preparations for the scheduled event date.