Stavros Halkias Blasts UFC Over Trump Ties

Comedian Stavros Halkias says the UFC's political ties to Donald Trump have soured his interest in mixed martial arts.

Speaking on a recent podcast, Halkias took aim at the promotion's continued embrace of the former president, who enjoys a close friendship with CEO Dana White. The relationship has resulted in multiple Trump appearances at UFC events, a White House showcase featuring the organization, and political advertising during broadcasts, per MMA Mania. One pre-midterm spot featured Trump promising voters a $5000 check if his party performed well in the elections.

Comedian Says Political Climate Dampened UFC Fandom

Halkias recounted how he and his brother used to catch pay-per-view cards at Buffalo Wild Wings during the sport's 2008-2016 boom, an era that saw the rise of Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor. Those years at the restaurant chain, where packed crowds watched fights with no cover charge, left him with fond memories from his youth.

The political atmosphere has since changed his relationship with the sport. "The MAGA suck off has really put a damper on it," Halkias said, according to the outlet. He distinguished between standard sports ownership and what he sees as UFC's aggressive political positioning, noting that while most team owners hold objectionable views, the promotion stands out for its willingness to participate in what he called propaganda.

Halkias told listeners he still tunes in occasionally but sometimes skips events to avoid financially supporting the organization. The number of casual fans alienated by Trump's prominent role at UFC shows remains unknown, though the comedian suggested the business calculus may be costing the promotion viewers.

White shows no indication of pulling back from the Trump association as the former president heads into 2027. The UFC has not addressed fan concerns about its political entanglements.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Comedian Stavros Halkias rips UFC for being ‘a MAGA suck-off’