NEW YORK: US President-elect Donald Trump received a warm welcome at the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heavyweight bout at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Trump entered the arena just before the start of the main card, accompanied by UFC President Dana White, a prominent supporter during his election campaign, reported AFP.
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, both of whom Trump has tapped to lead efforts to reduce government inefficiency attended the mixed-martial arts fights,
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom Trump has nominated as his pick for health secretary, was also at the fight.
The night had the feel of a celebratory, post-election outing for Republicans, with former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard — rumored to be tapped as director of national intelligence — also in attendance. Trump’s sons, Eric and Don Jr., and musician Kid Rock — a regular at Trump rallies — were spotted in the crowd as well.
After waving to the chanting crowd, Trump warmly greeted UFC commentator and podcast host Joe Rogan, who had endorsed Trump during the election after hosting him on his popular show.
The arena’s massive jumbotron above the cage displayed a video featuring highlights from Trump’s election campaign, including soundbites from the president-elect. The clip ended with the numbers 45 and 47, representing Trump’s past and future presidencies.
Fans in the arena broke into chants of “USA, USA,” a familiar refrain often heard at Trump rallies, including one he held at Madison Square Garden the previous month.
Trump, seated in the front row next to Musk, watched the fights from a prime position beside the octagon.
In the night’s main event, Jon Jones successfully defended his heavyweight title with a third-round technical knockout of fellow American Stipe Miocic. Jones celebrated the win by performing Trump’s signature ‘YMCA’ dance, prompting cheers from the crowd.
“I want to say a big thank you to President Donald Trump for being here tonight,” Jones said, drawing a huge roar of approval from fans.
Jones led the crowd in another round of “USA, USA” chants before passing his heavyweight championship belt to Trump and spending some time conversing with him.
Trump is a regular at UFC events and attended several fights during his presidential campaign.
