Donald Trump is heading to New York as the president-elect gears up for UFC 309 and a reunion with one of his most outspoken supporters, MMA promoter Dana White.
In a video posted to
“President @realDonaldTrump heads to New York for UFC 309!!” Martin wrote on X ahead of heavyweight Jon Jones’ highly anticipated matchup with Stipe Miocic in New York on Friday.
Saturday’s event will take place at Madison Square Garden, site of a successful Trump rally two weeks earlier that may have helped catapult him back to the White House. As was the case at the Republican National Convention, White addressed the MSG crowd last month in support of his friend Trump.
Trump later celebrated that victory with White at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach. Now it appears Trump will return to favor by standing up in support of the UFC CEO and president.
In a video posted to X by Margo Martin, Trump’s deputy communications director, the 78-year-old’s unmistakable silhouette can be seen walking up the stairs and boarding his private plane.
Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden on October 27
Trump has had a close relationship with UFC over the years, regularly attending events and even previously bragging about saving the company.
During an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast in the run-up to the election, Trump was quick to explain the role he played in making the UFC the billion-dollar success it has become under the leadership of White, who labeled Trump “the greatest man.” . ‘.
Trump asked the UFC president and CEO to speak on his behalf at the last three Republican National Conventions before inviting him to the victory party on stage.
White was invited to say a few words at the podium on stage, and after some glowing praise for Trump, he launched into what seemed like a victory speech of his own.
“No one deserves this more than him, and no one deserves this more than his family,” White began, perhaps in expected fashion.
Dana White, American businessman and president of UFC, speaks during a rally for former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, at Madison Square Garden
This is what happens when the machine comes after you. What you’ve seen over the years, this is what it looks like.
‘He keeps going, he doesn’t give up. He is the most resilient, hardworking man I have ever met in your life. His family are incredible people. This is karma, ladies and gentlemen. He deserves this, they deserve it as a family.”
But he soon started naming names, similar to what you might expect from an Oscars acceptance speech, naming various streamers.
‘I would like to thank a number of people very quickly. I want to thank the Nelk guys, Adin Ross, Theo Von (all streamers). And the mighty and powerful Joe Rogan. Thank you America, have a nice evening.’