On a brisk November evening, President-elect Donald Trump made a highly anticipated return to Madison Square Garden, not for a political rally, but for a UFC event that captured the nation’s attention. The historic venue, a place where both sport and entertainment converge, became the backdrop for another chapter in Trump’s public life as he continues to build momentum after his election win earlier in the week.
Walking out to a raucous standing ovation, Trump was flanked by UFC President Dana White, and the duo headed toward their cageside seats to the unmistakable sounds of Kid Rock’s “American Bad Ass.” It was a fitting soundtrack for the former president, whose relationship with the UFC has been long-standing. Trump, wearing a signature red tie, grinned broadly, acknowledging the crowd as the excitement in the arena soared.
The event came on the heels of a controversial rally where a comedian’s remark about Puerto Rico sparked widespread criticism, but despite the backlash, Trump showed no signs of backing down from his affinity for New York City, where he once lived for decades before relocating to Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida.
The UFC event marked another high-profile moment for Trump, who has consistently used his appearances in arenas and on media platforms to solidify his political narrative. The UFC aired a video celebrating his road to the White House, dubbing it “The great comeback in American History.” The crowd, electrified by the images of Trump’s journey, responded with a resounding applause, and Trump himself enthusiastically raised his fists in the air, fueling the fervor of his supporters.
As the pay-per-view event kicked off, Trump, clearly in his element, briefly danced to “YMCA” by the Village People, an iconic moment that became one of the night’s more lighthearted highlights. He later waved his fist in the air to the tune of “Takin’ Care of Business” while the crowd continued to cheer in anticipation of the night’s big bouts.
Trump’s presence at UFC 309 was not just a personal celebration but a symbol of his growing ties to the world of combat sports, particularly the UFC. He has long been a fan of the sport, and his connection with Dana White, who has been a key ally, is well-documented. White and Trump share a history dating back to 2001 when the UFC president hosted an event at Trump’s now-closed Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City. Since then, Trump has regularly attended UFC events, often in the company of high-profile figures like White, musician Kid Rock, and even former Fox News host Tucker Carlson.
In addition to White, Trump was joined by notable figures including Elon Musk, who was recently appointed by Trump to lead the newly-formed Department of Government Efficiency. Also present was House Speaker Mike Johnson, along with Robert Kennedy Jr., whom Trump has tapped to lead the Department of Health and Human Services in his upcoming administration. The eclectic group reflected Trump’s ongoing ability to bring together an influential mix of business, politics, and celebrity.
The star-studded atmosphere didn’t end with the arrival of Trump and his entourage. UFC commentator Joe Rogan, who has become a central figure in the broader conversation about masculinity and culture in America, has also forged a strong connection with Trump. The two recently held an extensive podcast discussion that delved into issues of politics and culture, a conversation that resonated with many of Trump’s supporters, particularly men who identify with the hypermasculine ethos Trump often champions.
As the action inside the octagon heated up, fans continued to chant “USA! USA!” in a powerful display of national pride. Trump, whose presidential campaign often embraced hypermasculinity and traditional American values, found a receptive audience in the UFC’s passionate fanbase. The event also highlighted the sharp political divide in the country, with Trump using moments like these to reinforce his connection with working-class Americans who are drawn to his tough-guy persona.
This atmosphere was not merely about sport; it was about a political movement that has, for years, relied on symbols of strength, masculinity, and defiance. Trump’s ability to seamlessly integrate his political brand with high-profile events like UFC 309 speaks to his broader strategy of maintaining a tight grip on his base while expanding his influence across various spheres of American life. The UFC has become one such arena, where Trump is not just a fan but a symbol of the kind of power and machismo that resonates deeply with his supporters.
While the spectacle of UFC 309 provided a moment of escapism for many, it also served as a reminder of Trump’s continued influence on American culture. His presence at the event was a clear demonstration of the ways in which sport and politics can intertwine in the modern age. Trump’s love of combat sports — from boxing to UFC — mirrors his political career, which has often been framed as a battle against the political establishment, the media, and even his opponents within the Republican Party.
For Trump, this isn’t just about enjoying a fight; it’s about controlling the narrative and aligning himself with the kind of energy and enthusiasm that defines the UFC crowd. His appearance at the event is a reminder that, even in the face of controversy, Trump remains a central figure in both American politics and popular culture.
As the night drew on, the focus shifted back to the octagon where Stipe Miocic was finally getting his long-awaited shot at reclaiming the heavyweight championship against the current titleholder, Jon Jones. The crowd was electrified, not just by the action in the cage but by the larger spectacle unfolding around them, one that continues to blur the lines between sports, entertainment, and politics.
In the days following the event, Trump’s political operation continues to gain steam, with visits to Washington and discussions with key Republican leaders. But for one night, at least, Trump was able to fully immerse himself in the adrenaline of a UFC event — a world he knows well and one where his larger-than-life presence remains firmly entrenched.
