Just when Americans thought they could enjoy a historic sporting event, a federal lawsuit has entered the octagon.

Two Virginia residents have filed a lawsuit against the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior in an effort to stop UFC Freedom 250 from taking place on the White House South Lawn. The plaintiffs are seeking an emergency injunction that would prevent the event from moving forward before fight night arrives.

According to the lawsuit, organizers allegedly failed to follow certain federal permitting requirements, bypassed environmental review procedures, and created potential conflict-of-interest concerns related to the planning of the event.

The legal challenge represents the latest obstacle facing what has become one of the most talked-about sporting events in the country. Supporters of the event have celebrated the opportunity to host a major UFC showcase at one of America's most iconic locations, while critics continue searching for ways to halt the plans.

At this stage, the lawsuit contains allegations that will ultimately need to be evaluated through the legal process. Federal officials and event organizers are expected to respond as the case moves forward.

The dispute now places the future of UFC Freedom 250 in the hands of the courts, at least temporarily. Whether the challenge succeeds remains to be seen, but the filing has added another layer of attention to an event that was already drawing national interest.

For now, fight fans will be watching closely to see if the action stays scheduled for the White House South Lawn—or if this legal challenge ends up being the toughest opponent the event faces before the first bell even rings.