Trump’s ‘Animals’ Remark at UFC Event Sparks Backlash Among Supporters

Donald Trump once again drew criticism for derogatory remarks during a White House press event on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, this time while promoting an upcoming UFC tournament at the executive mansion.

Mixed martial artist Justin Gaethje attempted to commend Trump for his early support of the UFC in the 1990s, saying:

‘I’m not sure many know how big of a part you were to the UFC becoming mainstream in the early ’90s, when nobody would let us—no one would believe in us, they thought they were absolute animals, and you gave us a chance to fight in your properties—’

Trump interjected with:

‘Well, they were right about that.’

Gaethje responded with a subdued, hesitant acknowledgment:

‘Well… somewhat, somewhat.’

Trump’s comment was met with tepid reception, as captured in a viral clip shared by journalist Acyn.

The president, a long-time fan of boxing and MMA, is set to host a historic UFC event on the White House lawn on June 14, 2026, his birthday. The main card will feature:

• Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria for the lightweight title
• Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title

TKO Holdings, UFC’s parent company, has confirmed the $60 million event will be fully funded by the organization, with no taxpayer cost. This marks the first UFC event ever hosted at the White House.

However, Trump’s latest remarks are consistent with a pattern of disparaging comments toward his supporters. Over the past year, he has:

• Called his base ‘stupid’ and ‘weaklings’ for focusing on the Epstein files, which implicated Trump.
• Suggested American workers lack skill.
• Claimed attendees at a Florida senior community likely couldn’t pass cognitive exams he took to prove his mental acuity. (The creators of these tests have disputed Trump’s claims, stating their exams assess dementia, not cognitive speed.)

Trump’s history of inflammatory rhetoric extends beyond his base. Throughout his political career, he has:

• Referred to women using crude, demeaning language.
• Called deceased veterans ‘suckers’ and ‘losers’.
• Said he loves the ‘poorly educated’.
• Boasted that he could ‘shoot someone on Fifth Avenue’ and retain voter support, implying blind loyalty among his followers.