Donald Trump received a roaring welcome at UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey on June 7, 2025. Fans packed the Prudential Center and broke into loud “USA” chants as the president entered with UFC President Dana White.
Walking in to Kid Rock’s “American Bad Ass,” Trump greeted excited fans on his way to his ringside seat. People throughout the arena held up their phones to capture what many social media users later called a “legendary” moment.
Trump didn’t come alone. His daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner watched from the audience. His son Eric Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were also there. During his entrance, Trump shook hands with boxing legend Mike Tyson and UFC commentator Joe Rogan, who previously hosted Trump on his podcast.
This UFC visit happened while Trump was in the middle of a public argument with Elon Musk. The two have been trading harsh words on social media, with Trump calling Musk “CRAZY” and Musk making unverified claims about Trump. Republican leaders are worried this fight might affect upcoming government business.
Trump’s connection to UFC goes back more than 20 years. Dana White has often mentioned how Trump offered his Trump Taj Mahal casino for early UFC events when many venues wouldn’t host the sport. White has spoken in support of Trump at Republican conventions over the years.
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During the event, UFC fighter Kevin Holland beat Vicente Luque in the first fight Trump watched that night. After winning, Holland climbed out of the cage to shake hands with Trump and White before returning for his interview.
The night’s main events included two championship fights, with Merab Dvalishvili facing Sean O’Malley for the bantamweight title in their second matchup, and Julianna Peña taking on Kayla Harrison for the women’s bantamweight title.
While fans at the arena cheered loudly for Trump, reactions online were mixed, showing how his public appearances continue to divide people politically.
For Trump, these UFC appearances help him connect directly with fans who support his style and message. For the UFC, the relationship has increased its visibility, though some argue it risks turning off viewers who prefer sports without politics.
