Trump Takes a Break from Musk Feud to Enjoy UFC 316 in Newark
In a surprising show of camaraderie and sports enthusiasm, former President Donald Trump stepped away from his public squabble with tech mogul Elon Musk to attend the UFC 316 event at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday night.
Making His Entrance with UFC President Dana White
Accompanied by UFC President Dana White, Trump arrived amidst roaring applause, heading straight to their coveted cageside seats. The pair made a grand entrance to the strains of Kid Rock's "American Bad Ass," setting a rousing tone for the evening’s fierce bouts.
This wasn't Trump’s first high-profile UFC outing with White; the duo previously appeared together at a UFC event in Madison Square Garden last November, famously joined then by Musk.
Surrounded by Family and Iconic Figures
Trump didn't come alone. Joining him were his daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner, son Eric Trump, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The former president merrily shook hands with fans and fellow sports legends along the way, including the retired boxing champion Mike Tyson, reinforcing his standing as a longstanding UFC fan.
UFC’s broadcast team, including the popular commentator Joe Rogan—who hosted Trump on his podcast during the 2024 campaign’s final stretch—also greeted the former president warmly.
A Night of Championship Fights and Fan Frenzy
The UFC crowd enthusiastically welcomed Trump, many capturing the moment on their phones. The event promised thrilling action, featuring two intense 135-pound championship defenses by Julianna Peña and Merab Dvalishvili.
Early in the night, UFC fighter Kevin Holland delivered a memorable victory over Vicente Luque. Holland celebrated by climbing the cage to congratulate Trump and White, sharing a brief exchange before returning to the post-fight proceedings.
Two Decades of UFC and Trump’s Enduring Connection
The alliance between Trump and Dana White spans over twenty years, with a notable highlight in 2001 when White hosted a UFC match at the Trump Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City. Trump’s attendance at UFC events has been consistent, even throughout his 2024 presidential campaign.
His entourage at recent fights has included prominent personalities like Kid Rock and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, symbolizing the blend of politics, entertainment, and sports that often surrounds Trump.
Mutually Beneficial Partnership
The partnership between Trump and White continues to strengthen both men’s profiles. White has been an active supporter of Trump at Republican events, while Trump’s engagement with the dynamic world of MMA has further fueled fan enthusiasm and political backing within fight night communities.
