Islam Makhachev wants to compete at the UFC’s planned White House event on 14 June.
The welterweight champion says the unique setting offers a chance to make history.
He stressed that money no longer drives his decisions because he already earns enough for his family.
Several stars hope to appear on the Independence Day card in Washington.
Jon Jones has discussed fighting there in his final bout.
Conor McGregor has also targeted the event for his return.
Makhachev said he trains daily and remains hungry to stay champion.
He previously named Kamaru Usman as his preferred opponent.
He also showed interest in a bout with Ilia Topuria.
His manager Ali Abdelaziz dismissed the Topuria matchup for June.
He said Makhachev’s next defence will come against a true welterweight contender.
He instead backed Justin Gaethje to fight Topuria for the lightweight title.
Gaethje strengthened that position by winning interim gold at UFC 324.
He now expects a title unification bout in Washington.
Makhachev, meanwhile, continues to push for a place on the historic card.
