Former President Donald Trump made a surprise appearance at UFC 287 alongside the organization’s president, Dana White. The crowd at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas erupted with cheers as Trump and White entered the arena. The appearance was unexpected, but it didn’t come as a complete shock to those who have followed Trump’s relationship with the UFC and White.
Trump’s History with the UFC
Before his political career, Trump had a longstanding relationship with the UFC. In fact, the UFC held several events at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Trump was even inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2016 for his contributions to the sport.
Trump’s appearance at UFC 287 was not the first time he attended a UFC event as president. He attended UFC 244 in 2019, which took place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
White’s Support for Trump
Dana White has been a vocal supporter of Trump for years, even speaking at the Republican National Convention in 2020. While White’s political views have been controversial among some fans, his support for Trump has remained unwavering.
White’s support for Trump has not been without its consequences. In 2018, several UFC fighters spoke out against White for his support of Trump. However, White has remained steadfast in his support for the former president.
The Reaction to Trump’s Appearance
Not surprisingly, Trump’s appearance at UFC 287 garnered a mixed reaction. While many in attendance cheered for the former president, others took to social media to voice their displeasure.
Some fans were upset that Trump’s appearance took away from the focus on the fighters and the sport. Others were unhappy with White’s continued support for Trump, especially given the former president’s controversial history and actions.
Despite the mixed reaction, Trump’s appearance at UFC 287 was undoubtedly a significant moment for the organization. Trump’s support for the sport, coupled with White’s longstanding support for him, has only strengthened the bond between the former president and the UFC.
In Conclusion
Donald Trump’s surprise appearance at UFC 287 with Dana White was unexpected but not entirely surprising given his history with the organization. White’s support for Trump has been controversial but unwavering, and Trump’s appearance at UFC events has become somewhat of a tradition. While the reaction to Trump’s appearance was mixed, it undoubtedly helped to solidify the bond between the former president and the UFC.
