US President Donald Trump attended a UFC fight in Miami, shortly after US-Iran talks collapsed in Islamabad and J.D. Vance’s departure from Pakistan. Trump arrived at the venue just after 9:00 PM local time, accompanied by UFC president Dana White and family members. To the sounds of Kid Rock’s music, he made his way to his seat, where Secretary of State Marco Rubio was waiting, while US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor was also nearby. Less than half an hour later, around 6:30 AM in Islamabad, Vice President J.D. Vance announced that US and Iranian delegations failed to reach a peace agreement. According to the same sources, Trump remained at the Miami fight venue until at least 11:28 PM local time.
Specifically, Trump went to UFC 327 in Miami on Saturday night, marking the US president’s first appearance at a sporting event since the start of the war with Iran. The US president entered the arena alongside UFC CEO Dana White, walked past commentators Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier, and exchanged some words with them.
Donald Trump at UFC fight: the complete timeline
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stood close to the seats just before Trump emerged, then leaned toward Trump and began whispering very close to the president, covering his mouth with his hands. Trump then turned, raising his fist toward those sitting behind him, smiling and waving, then pointed several times at the crowd.
Later, Donald Trump had a conversation with Brazilian fighter Paulo Costa, who achieved an impressive knockout in the third round against undefeated Azamat Murzakanov, establishing himself as a title contender in the light-heavyweight division.
The two men exchanged handshakes and appeared to converse, with details becoming known afterward. A video revealed that Costa thanked Trump for “what he’s doing.” Things got interesting when Trump responded: “You’re a handsome man and a great fighter.” Costa continued talking to the President, but with English as his second language, it was difficult to understand him.
Apparently the US president heard Costa use the word “model” and jokingly told him: “You could be a model, you’re so handsome. You’re too good looking to be a fighter, you’re a tremendous fighter. Thank you, my friend.” After the event, Costa was asked about the meeting and laughed, telling media: “It was so funny, thank you Mr. Trump.” “I was just talking to him jokingly,” he added.
Trump’s passion
Trump is a frequent UFC visitor, having attended UFC 316, UFC 302 in June, UFC 309 in November in recent years, while in 2019 he watched UFC 244.
It should be noted that UFC Freedom 250 (also known as UFC White House) is scheduled for June 14 and will take place in the South Lawn of the White House in Washington. The event’s name references the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.
Before Saturday, the last major sporting event Trump attended was the College Football Playoff national championship final between Indiana and Miami at Hard Rock Stadium on January 19.
President @RealDonaldTrump has arrived at #UFC327! pic.twitter.com/2Vi6LTMH06
— UFC (@ufc) April 12, 2026
🚨 NOW: President Trump is in his element tonight at UFC in Miami
🇺🇸🔥 pic.twitter.com/EfP76yR8u1
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 12, 2026
Paulo Costa jumps out of the cage after winning at #UFC327 in Miami to shake hands with President Trump…
Costa: “Thank you for doing what you’re doing, I needed to tell you this…”
Trump: “You’re too good looking to be a fighter and you are some fighter…” #UFC327 pic.twitter.com/bA0p61ADku
— Dan Scavino Jr.🇺🇸🦅 (@DanScavino) April 12, 2026