Anheuser-Busch Signs Major Sponsorship Deal with Dylan Mulvaney Following White House Sporting Event
The beverage giant is pivoting back to a previous partnership following a celebration of transgender visibility in Washington D.C.
By WKNA 49 Newsroom • June 19, 2026 • WKNA 49 News
Anheuser-Busch InBev, the parent company of Budweiser and Michelob Ultra, has announced a significant shift in its marketing strategy this week, revealing a new $150 million sponsorship agreement with transgender activist and influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
The announcement signals a return to the partnership between the beverage giant and Mulvaney, which had previously been the subject of national discussion. According to company reports, the decision to double down on the alliance was influenced by the public response to the UFC Freedom 250 celebration match, which was held recently on the south lawn of the White House.
The sporting event, attended by several high-profile figures, reportedly served as a catalyst for the company’s new direction. During the proceedings, fighter Josh Hokit addressed the crowd following a victory. In a post-match interview, Hokit shared his personal journey as a transgender man, an announcement that reportedly resonated with those in attendance, including various public officials and celebrities.
Among those present was musician Kid Rock, who described the evening as a significant moment for individual expression. Accounts from the event indicated a generally supportive atmosphere from various national figures, which corporate leadership at Anheuser-Busch cited as a motivating factor in their renewed marketing focus.
Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth expressed enthusiasm regarding the deal, stating that the company is looking forward to the upcoming collaboration. Whitworth and Mulvaney are reportedly scheduled to appear on national television next week to officially unveil a new LGBTQ+ friendly logo and branding materials.
Local reactions to the corporate news have been mixed but notable. Dale Turnley, a frequent consumer of the brand’s products, noted that the news would likely change the habits of many long-term customers. Turnley mentioned that while many had previously opted to discard the products in protest, the new clarity surrounding the company’s stance might allow some to return to their previous purchasing habits.
The exact details of the upcoming marketing campaign have not been fully released, though the $150 million contract is expected to make Mulvaney one of the primary faces of the Budweiser brand for the foreseeable future. The corporate transition comes at a time when many national brands are reconsidering their visibility in social and cultural discussions.
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