President-elect Donald Trump received a hero’s welcome at Madison Square Garden on Saturday as he attended the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heavyweight bout. Chants of “USA, USA” echoed through the arena as Trump made his entrance, accompanied by UFC CEO Dana White, a staunch supporter during his campaign.
The event took on a celebratory, postelection atmosphere for Republicans, with several of Trump’s political allies in attendance. Among them were Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who have been tasked by Trump with leading initiatives to streamline government operations.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s nominee for Health Secretary, was also present, with a photo posted on X showing the two traveling to the event together aboard Trump’s private jet.
Tulsi Gabbard, the former Democratic congresswoman and Trump’s pick for Director of National Intelligence, joined the crowd alongside Trump’s sons Eric and Don Jr., musician Kid Rock, and UFC commentator Joe Rogan. Rogan, who endorsed Trump after hosting him on his podcast, received a warm greeting from the president-elect.
Adding to the patriotic fervor, the arena’s giant screen displayed a campaign highlight reel featuring Trump, culminating in the numbers 45 and 47—symbolizing his past and upcoming terms as president.
The evening reflected the enthusiasm of Trump’s supporters as they celebrated his return to the political stage.
