UFC legend Frankie Edgar recently campaigned for former President Trump in Michigan just days before the election. Along with fellow fighters Rashad Evans and Henry Cejudo, Edgar visited a Yemeni restaurant in Dearborn to speak to Arab Americans. Trump had garnered support from Arab American groups in the state leading up to the election. Edgar, a UFC Hall of Famer, empathized with the audience, discussing his background as a blue-collar fighter, former union plumber, business owner, and family man. He declared his support for Trump based on their shared values and interests.
This event was part of a larger effort by UFC stars to support the Republican presidential candidate in Michigan. Cejudo, along with Justin Gaethje and Beneil Dariush, also reached out to Arab American communities in the state. Gaethje likened the election cycle to the “championship rounds,” highlighting the intensity of the competition between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. In a mid-October Fox News Poll, Trump was shown to be ahead of Harris nationally by two points, indicating a close race that could go either way.
The involvement of UFC fighters in political campaigns reflects a trend of athletes using their platforms to advocate for causes and candidates. Edgar, Evans, Cejudo, Gaethje, and Dariush all shared their support for Trump in an effort to connect with Arab Americans and other voters. Their message centered on common values, experiences, and concerns, emphasizing the importance of personal backgrounds in shaping political beliefs. By aligning themselves with Trump, these fighters hoped to sway undecided voters and energize their fans to support the Republican candidate.
The presence of UFC stars in Michigan and other key battleground states underlines the significance of these areas in shaping the outcome of the election. Trump and Harris are locked in a tight race, with both candidates vying for support in crucial regions. Arab American communities, in particular, have emerged as an important demographic in Michigan, with both campaigns actively courting their votes. The engagement of UFC fighters in these efforts showcases the diverse range of voices in American politics and the role of sport in influencing public opinion.
As Election Day approaches, the stakes are high for both Trump and Harris, who are working tirelessly to secure victory. With the support of UFC fighters like Edgar, Evans, Cejudo, Gaethje, and Dariush, the Trump campaign is making a strong push to sway voters in key swing states. Their message of shared values and common interests resonates with voters who are seeking representation from candidates who understand their concerns. The outcome of the election remains uncertain, but the involvement of these athletes adds a unique perspective to the political discourse and highlights the intersection of sports and politics in American society.
