Dana White Hosts Trump at UFC Event with Elon Musk and Jon Jones

Donald Trump's Return to the UFC Arena

US President-elect Donald Trump, taking some break from Cabinet pickups, returned to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) arena on Saturday night as the people's champion amid a roaring ovation at Madison Square Garden. Trump's heavyweight-style entrance boosted the MMA crowd as he walked to Kid Rock's "American Badass," accompanied by a star-studded entourage, including his buddy and tech giant Elon Musk.

The UFC aired a video highlighting Donald Trump’s campaign to return to the White House, titled “The Great Comeback in American History.” The crowd at the UFC arena stood and applauded as the video ended. Trump, wearing a red tie, raised his fist toward the crowd, recreating a moment from his Pennsylvania rally, where he narrowly escaped death.

Trump and Musk at the Event

Outside the cage, Trump pumped his fists and briefly moved to the Village People’s “YMCA.” Later, he raised his fist again as “Takin’ Care of Business” played. Elon Musk, tapped by Donald Trump to co-lead a new Department of Government Efficiency, joined the president-elect and House Speaker Mike Johnson at the Garden. Robert Kennedy Jr., Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, was also present.

A Meeting with Joe Rogan

At the arena, Trump headed directly to UFC host and podcaster Joe Rogan, shaking hands and talking with him for nearly a minute. Rogan had interviewed Trump and endorsed him on his podcast in the days before the US presidential election. Trump shares closer ties with UFC CEO Dana White, who gave a thunderous speech during Trump's victory celebrations.

Jon Jones Expresses Excitement

Main card fighter Jon Jones expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of fighting Stipe Miocic in front of President-elect Donald Trump during a media event promoting the bout. “To be here at Madison Square Garden — it's like the fight capital of the world. And to have the president possibly in attendance, it’s all a huge honor,” Jones had said. Miocic, 42, also shared his excitement upon hearing that Trump would attend.