Many people talk about Conor McGregor‘s boxing match against Floyd Mayweather, but few remember the clash between Vitor Belfort and Evander Holyfield. Moreover, former US President Donald Trump was also a part of the commentary team for the fight. Recently, reports have emerged that Trump received a sum in millions for his commentary chops for the Belfort-Holyfield fight.
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Evan Holyfield was 58 and fought in his first boxing match in over a decade in 2021. He stepped into fight Vitor Belfort after Oscar De La Hoya, who was the former UFC champion’s initial opponent, tested positive for Covid-19. Moreover, to up the ante, the promoter, Triller Fight Club, added Donald Trump to the commentary team for the fight.
Donald Trump received $2.5 million to commentate on the Belfort-Holyfield fight
Triller Fight Club was embroiled in a lot of controversies over the years. Recent reports indicate Donald Trump was paid $2.5 million to commentate for the 2021 Vitor Belfort vs Evander Holyfield fight. Moreover, they released a statement regarding the matter and had this to say – “The payment made to Trump for his commentary was consistent with the fees typically received by celebrity commentator.”
Former US president, Donald Trump was reportedly paid $2,500,000 for his commentary chops as part of a 2021 event hosted by Triller. https://t.co/zesCu8iV9D
— LowKickMMA.com (@LowKick_MMA) July 15, 2023
Triller garnered attention for its unusual way of mixing combat sports with entertainment. However, they apparently went too far when they pitted a 58-year-old Holyfield against a 44-year-old Vitor Belfort. The former UFC champion made quick work of the former undisputed boxing world champion and knocked him out in the first round of the fight. In 2022, Triller decided to give up promoting boxing matches. Meanwhile, when it comes to Donald Trump, boxing is not the only combat sport that he has a natural liking for. He enjoys MMA as well.
Trump’s affinity for combat sports, especially MMA
Donald Trump is a big fan of combat sports. It is evident with his constant attendance during various UFC events. The 45th US president also has a very close relationship with Dana White and has let the UFC host some of their events at his properties. Moreover, Trump has been associated with the UFC for over two decades.
Dana White has been open about his support for Donald Trump. He endorsed the billionaire for president in 2016 and 2020. In addition to that, Trump has also garnered support from many UFC fighters, most notably Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal. Furthermore, fans recently saw him having a friendly chat with Joe Rogan.
Despite the contribution of Donald Trump’s commentary and in-person appearance, Triller has faced significant challenges and a decline in performance since hosting the Holyfield vs. Belfort event. As for Trump, his $2.5 million payout is part of the estimated $1 billion in earnings he has amassed since leaving the presidency.
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Written by
Edited by
Anuj Jacob