Trump emerges from Mar-a-Lago seclusion to raucous reception at UFC with key allies

Former President Donald Trump made a rare public appearance at a UFC 285 fight in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 2, 2023, where he was greeted by a thunderous ovation from the crowd.

Trump, who has largely stayed out of the public eye since leaving office in January 2021, was joined by several of his key allies, including former national security adviser Michael Flynn and former acting attorney general Matthew Whitaker.

The former president's appearance at the event was seen as a sign that he is preparing to re-enter the political arena. Trump has repeatedly hinted that he may run for president again in 2024, and his appearance at the UFC event was seen as a way to test the waters and gauge his support among the Republican base.

The crowd at the event was enthusiastically supportive of Trump, chanting "USA! USA!" and "We love Trump!" as he made his way to his seat. Trump waved to the crowd and gave a thumbs-up as he took his place next to UFC President Dana White.

Trump's appearance at the event was met with mixed reactions from political observers. Some saw it as a sign that he is preparing to make a political comeback, while others dismissed it as a publicity stunt. However, there is no doubt that Trump's appearance at the UFC event was a major news event, and it is likely to be seen as a sign that he is still a force to be reckoned with in the Republican Party.