UFC, boxing and golf: what is Donald Trump’s relationship with sport?
Dec 27, 2024
auto_awesome
Karim Zidan, an investigative journalist focused on the nexus of sports and politics, dives into Donald Trump's complex connections with various sports. He explores Trump’s relationships with figures like Dana White and Vince McMahon, highlighting how combat sports have shaped his public image. The discussion contrasts Trump's love for golf with his disinterest in team sports, revealing a unique sporting dichotomy that reflects his political strategies. Zidan also touches on the implications of hosting major events like the World Cup and Olympics under Trump's influence.
Donald Trump's connections with combat sports like UFC and boxing reveal his strategic use of entertainment to enhance his political image.
His interactions with golf illustrate a preference for exclusive networking opportunities, aligning his personal brand with competitiveness and status.
Deep dives
The Rise of Trump and UFC Connection
Donald Trump's relationship with the UFC began in the mid-2000s when Dana White publicly endorsed him during his presidential campaign. This support coincided with the rise of MAGA politics, establishing a connection between Trump's brand of conservatism and the UFC's fan base. Trump recognized the UFC as a vehicle for promoting his image, particularly through events like the Republican National Convention, where White's endorsement helped legitimize the UFC in mainstream politics. The bond between the two grew deeper as Trump provided early support for the organization when it faced public skepticism, intertwining their narratives of machismo and political power.
Combat Sports as Political Theatre
Trump's long-standing fascination with combat sports is rooted in his perception of these activities as a form of entertainment rather than mere competition. His initial involvement in boxing, particularly through hosting high-profile matches featuring Mike Tyson, ultimately paved the way for his embrace of mixed martial arts and wrestling. Events like WrestleMania showcased Trump as both a character and a spectacle, further blurring the lines between politics and performance art. This theatricality resonated with his political persona, allowing him to tap into the emotions of his supporters while presenting himself as a dominant figure.
Golf and Higher Stakes Diplomacy
Golf serves as a significant arena for Trump, where he flexes both his competitive spirit and his penchant for self-promotion. His history of dubious practices on the golf course exemplifies a broader approach to winning, viewing cheating as a strategic move rather than a moral failing. The sport also allows him to forge connections with influential figures, using golf as a tool for diplomacy and networking. While he shuns team sports for their more progressive associations, golf offers a private and exclusive space for elevating his status, aligning closely with his political ambitions and personal brand.
The US president-elect’s ties with the Ultimate Fighting Championship and boxing, as well as World Wrestling Entertainment, might tell us about the kinds of sport he appreciates. But then there’s golf …As the US prepares to host the World Cup and the Olympics during Trump’s presidency, Jonathan Freedland and Karim Zidan walk through his history with sport to see if it explains more about him
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode