Trump Gains Support from Hogan and White at RNC

UFC President Dana White and WWE legend Hulk Hogan delivered high-energy endorsements for former President Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention (RNC), underscoring Trump’s deep-rooted connections with both the WWE and UFC. Their speeches highlighted not just their personal support but also the intricate and long-standing relationships Trump has cultivated within the sports entertainment and combat sports industries.

Trump’s association with WWE—formerly WWF—dates back to 1988 when he became involved with Vince McMahon’s then-growing sports entertainment empire. Trump Plaza in Atlantic City sponsored WrestleMania IV and V in 1988 and 1989, marking the beginning of Trump’s active participation in WWE events. Trump himself acknowledged his enthusiasm for the wrestling world in a 2011 documentary, where he expressed his desire to be part of WrestleMania, stating he “wanted a piece of” the action.

Over the years, Trump made several appearances at WWE events, further cementing his relationship with the organization. He attended WrestleMania VII in Los Angeles and WrestleMania XX in New York. A significant moment in his WWE involvement was in 2007, during the “Battle of the Billionaires” at WrestleMania 23. Represented by Bobby Lashley, Trump faced off against Vince McMahon’s representative, Umaga. The match concluded with Lashley’s victory, leading to the memorable scene of McMahon having his head shaved in the ring. In recognition of his contributions and appearances, Trump was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013. Additionally, Trump appointed Linda McMahon, Vince’s wife and WWE co-founder, as the head of the Small Business Administration during his presidency, reflecting the close ties between him and the McMahon family.

Financial connections also underscored Trump’s relationship with WWE. Vince McMahon made substantial contributions to Trump’s former charity, donating $5 million in 2007 and 2009, which coincided with Trump’s WWE appearances. While the specific purposes of these payments remain unclear, they were revealed when WWE disclosed millions in previously unrecorded expenses related to sexual misconduct allegations against McMahon. This revelation highlighted the financial interweaving between Trump and WWE during that period.

Trump’s relationship with UFC and Dana White spans more than two decades, marked by mutual support and collaboration. Trump invited White to hold UFC events at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City in 2001, personally attending the May and June events. White’s public endorsement of Trump dates back to the 2016 RNC, where he delivered a supportive speech. White’s recent endorsement at the RNC followed Trump’s first public appearance post-felony conviction at a UFC event, demonstrating the enduring alliance between them.

The RNC was notable for its assembly of prominent sports entertainment figures, including Hogan, White, and Linda McMahon, all of whom delivered speeches endorsing Trump. Hogan’s speech was particularly theatrical, invoking his iconic wrestling persona to rally the crowd. He employed his famous catchphrases and dramatically ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump t-shirt, a gesture that electrified the audience. Hogan explained in a Fox News interview and during his speech that an assassination attempt on Trump inspired him to speak at the convention, referring to Trump as his “hero” and “what America needs.” Linda McMahon also took to the stage earlier in the day to voice her support for Trump.

White’s introduction of Trump at the RNC marked a shift from the tradition of Trump’s family members, such as Melania and Ivanka Trump, who had introduced him at the 2016 and 2020 GOP conventions, respectively. This change highlighted Trump’s strong ties with influential figures in the sports world, particularly those who have supported him publicly over the years.

Despite his current strong support for Trump, Hogan’s political endorsements have varied over the years. In 2008, Hogan endorsed Barack Obama but chose not to support him for his second term in 2012, reflecting a shift in his political stance.

Forbes estimates Vince McMahon’s net worth at $2.9 billion. McMahon recently left WWE, now owned by TKO Group, amid multiple sexual misconduct allegations. Federal authorities are investigating allegations of sexual assault and trafficking against McMahon, who has denied all accusations. Trump, for his part, is estimated to be worth $5.9 billion. These figures underscore the significant financial influence both men wield, despite their legal and public controversies.