President Donald Trump made a special appearance at UFC 314 in Miami, Florida on Saturday, trading the Oval Office for The Octagon. The crowd erupted in applause as the first sitting president to attend a UFC event participated in the traditional “walkout” alongside athletes. Trump was joined by close ally Elon Musk and top administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and FBI Director Kash Patel.
During the event, Trump embraced UFC CEO Dana White, podcast host Joe Rogan, and basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal on the arena floor. His attendance at the fight highlighted his ties to the UFC organization and its CEO, Dana White, as well as his connection to the young men who supported his return to the White House.
This event marked a rare domestic travel outing for the president during his second term, showcasing his reemergence in American pop culture. Trump’s warm reception at sporting events like the Super Bowl and the NCAA wrestling championships has emphasized his transition from a divisive figure to a cultural icon.
White House communications director Steven Cheung noted Trump’s appreciation for the sport and the competitive spirit of UFC athletes, emphasizing that the president enjoys being cage side during fights.
Trump’s engagement with male-oriented podcasts has also been instrumental in boosting his support among low-propensity voters. These podcasts often focus on physical fitness, traditional masculinity traits, and mixed martial arts, reflecting the appeal of UFC and its alignment with Trump’s political rise.
The UFC, established in 1993, has grown into a major sporting organization, reaching millions of households worldwide. Trump’s long-standing support for the brand was evident in his attendance at previous UFC events, highlighting the parallel between the sport’s ascendance and his political trajectory.
Notable figures such as White, Kid Rock, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Tucker Carlson, and Donald Trump Jr. are closely associated with the president. Trump’s enduring friendship with the CEO of the UFC reflects a bond built on loyalty. In the early days of the UFC, White faced challenges securing venues for fights until Trump stepped in to host an event at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City in 2001. During his 2024 victory speech in West Palm Beach, Trump praised White for his dedication, describing him as excelling in the realm of sports.
White became a prominent supporter of Trump during the 2024 campaign, aiming to attract young male voters due to the UFC’s engaged fan base both online and offline. With stars like Conor McGregor boasting millions of followers on social media, the UFC holds significant influence. When Trump needed someone to introduce him at the Republican National Convention in July 2024, he chose White, who lauded Trump as the toughest and most resilient person he had ever known.
For the latest updates, CNN’s Donie O’Sullivan has contributed to this report. Stay informed by creating an account at CNN.com for more news and newsletters.
