Donald Trump Shocks Crowd with UFC Appearance After Deploying Troops Amid LA Chaos

In a moment that stirred both celebration and criticism, former US President Donald Trump made a dramatic appearance at UFC 316 on Saturday night, despite nationwide unrest tied to aggressive immigration enforcement. As protesters clashed with federal agents in Los Angeles for a second night, the 45th president was met with a thunderous ovation from fans at Newark’s Prudential Center in New Jersey.

The timing of his appearance couldn’t have been more controversial. Earlier that day, Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to contain escalating riots in LA’s Paramount district—unrest that erupted following the arrest of 44 individuals by immigration agents during high-intensity raids. As protests turned violent, Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum citing a “zero tolerance policy” against attacks on law enforcement.

Joined by daughter Ivanka Trump, son Eric Trump, son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the former commander-in-chief walked in alongside UFC President Dana White to a crowd of roaring supporters. Prominent personalities such as UFC commentator Joe Rogan and boxing legend Mike Tyson were also in attendance as Trump took his seat in the front row.

The current administration’s approach to immigration enforcement remains one of the most polarizing political topics, and the decision to appear at a public entertainment event mere hours after military action drew sharp criticism. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the troop deployment, calling it “purposefully inflammatory” and warning it would only escalate tensions rather than ease them.

While Trump fans at the arena erupted with excitement, critics across social platforms questioned the optics of a national leader prioritizing a sports event amid a public safety crisis. Notably absent from the Trump entourage was tech mogul Elon Musk, who recently distanced himself from the administration and reportedly deleted a string of posts linking Trump to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The UFC 316 main card itself didn’t disappoint. Bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili defended his title in a thrilling rematch against UFC star Sean O’Malley, and Kayla Harrison shocked fans with a kimura submission win over Julianna Peña. In a highlight moment, Yoo Joo-sang delivered a vicious knockout to Jeka Saragih, while Kevin Holland secured a second-round submission against Vicente Luque—earning a personal congratulation from Trump.

Trump’s dual role as both political powerbroker and cultural icon remains deeply divisive. His attendance at UFC 316, amidst one of the most politically charged weekends of the year, exemplifies the bold style his supporters admire—and the brashness his critics denounce. Whether it boosts or bruises his standing in the 2024 election cycle remains to be seen.