Madison Square Garden was electric on Saturday night as President-elect Donald Trump made a triumphant return to the UFC, basking in a hero’s welcome from the roaring crowd. Just days after his landslide victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump reminded everyone why he’s a larger-than-life figure in American politics—and now, apparently, in the world of mixed martial arts.
Accompanied by UFC CEO Dana White, Trump’s entourage read like a headline-grabbing dream team: Elon Musk, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Tulsi Gabbard, among others. Talk about a power lineup. The stadium erupted into deafening applause as Trump walked through the crowd, shaking hands, smiling, and waving like a rock star. Even Joe Rogan, who was announcing the fights, couldn’t contain his excitement. “The sound in this room—it is so loud!” Rogan exclaimed. “It’s always loud when he comes here, but now that he’s won, now that he’s president—oh my God.”
Donald Trump UFC walkouts are back. pic.twitter.com/TudOqjM9eR
— Deadspin (@Deadspin) November 17, 2024
Trump didn’t just stop at soaking in the cheers. He greeted Rogan with a bear hug and handshake, cementing the unlikely alliance that has captivated millions of Americans. Their recent three-hour conversation on The Joe Rogan Experience was a viral sensation, racking up 50 million views on YouTube.
The podcast served as a pivotal moment in Trump’s campaign, giving him a platform to connect with Independents and male voters who might not tune into traditional political fare. Rogan’s endorsement of Trump, which came just before Election Day, added fuel to the fire, helping solidify support in key demographics.
President Trump gives Joe Rogan a hug ringside at UFC 309 at MSG.
🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/L49Z1mumXU
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) November 17, 2024
Inside the octagon, the action didn’t disappoint. Jon “Bones” Jones defended his UFC heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic, sealing his victory with a spinning back kick. But it was his post-fight celebration that stole the show. Breaking into Trump’s iconic YMCA dance, Jones had the crowd on its feet, chanting “USA! USA!” as he handed his championship belt to Trump. “I’m proud to be a great American champion. I’m proud to be a Christian American champion,” Jones declared, earning even louder cheers.
Jon Jones just won his UFC fight and did the Trump dance. pic.twitter.com/0yXSF20pUU
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) November 17, 2024
Jon Jones just won his UFC match and gave the championship belt to Trump pic.twitter.com/XsB2bEaZIL
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) November 17, 2024
The UFC has long been a favorite of Trump’s, and the admiration is clearly mutual. Dana White, who introduced Trump at the Republican National Convention, has been a vocal supporter, calling him a true friend of the sport. The scene at MSG was a microcosm of Trump’s appeal: unapologetic patriotism, star power, and an unrelenting connection to everyday Americans. Love him or hate him, the energy in that arena was undeniable—a reminder that Trump, both in politics and beyond, is still a force to be reckoned with.
