How this brutal sport took over America — and helped elect Donald Trump
Feb 27, 2025
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In this engaging discussion, Jack Crosbie, a contributing writer for Rolling Stone, unpacks the fascinating relationship between Donald Trump and the UFC. He explores how Trump's friendship with UFC CEO Dana White reflects their mutual rise to prominence. The dialogue highlights the intersection of sports and politics, delving into the cultural significance of mixed martial arts in America today. Crosbie also analyzes how combat sports resonate with societal tensions and their unexpected role in the upcoming 2024 election.
The rise of the UFC reflects a shift in American culture towards visceral entertainment, resonating with the political sentiments of Trump's presidency.
Dana White's strategic leadership and relationship with Trump transformed the UFC into a multi-billion dollar organization, showcasing the intersection of sport and politics.
Deep dives
The Cultural Significance of MMA in Trump's America
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has emerged as a dominant sport reflecting the cultural mood of contemporary America, especially during Trump's presidency. The rise in popularity of the UFC, which boasts hundreds of millions of fans, mirrors a shift towards a more visceral and individualistic form of entertainment that resonates with contemporary political sentiments. Fans appreciate not only the athleticism but also the violence, as it offers a vicarious thrill amidst a polarized and charged political landscape. This relationship between politics and sport suggests that understanding the appeal of the UFC can provide deeper insights into the complexities of Trump’s America.
Dana White's Role in the UFC's Evolution
Dana White's leadership has been pivotal in transforming the UFC into a multi-billion dollar organization, significantly impacting both the sport and its relationship with American culture. Taking control in the early 2000s, White identified the need to legitimize MMA against widespread criticism and opposition, particularly from politicians. He strategically leveraged relationships with influential figures like Trump, who provided critical venues for early UFC events, helping to establish the sport's credibility. White's clear vision and single-control leadership style mirror Trump's approach, reinforcing the connection between their respective success trajectories.
The Intersection of Politics, Media, and MMA
The intertwining of Trump, Dana White, and prominent media figures like Joe Rogan illustrates a contemporary political strategy that leverages the cultural influence of MMA. Trump’s campaign benefited from appearances on popular podcasts, expanding his reach to young male audiences who now align closely with UFC. While other politicians struggle to connect with this demographic, the strategy deployed by Trump and White has effectively cemented their influence within the new media landscape of conservative and populist movements. This synergy indicates a profound shift in political engagement, where media savvy intertwines with entertainment, further solidifying the UFC’s role in shaping cultural and political narratives.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship and the sport at its center, mixed martial arts, have exploded in popularity in recent years — and President Donald Trump is a fan. Trump and UFC CEO Dana White are also close friends, and have been for decades. For a story in Rolling Stone, Jack Crosbie details how the two have helped each other rise. Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu spoke with Crosbie about the integral link between Trump’s America and the UFC.
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