Here’s what Rogan recommended to Trump.
President Donald Trump remains one of the most talked-about figures in American politics, but podcast superstar Joe Rogan is warning that not every crowd is as welcoming as the ones Trump encounters at UFC events.
Rogan made headlines this week after suggesting that Trump should avoid certain public appearances where hostile audiences could overshadow his message.
The comments came after Trump attended Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Videos shared online showed sharply divided reactions from fans when the president appeared on the arena’s giant video board.
While many spectators erupted into cheers and chants of “USA,” others responded with loud boos, creating yet another viral moment involving the president.
Discussing the situation during a conversation with comedian Joey Diaz, Rogan argued that Trump consistently receives stronger support at UFC events than at many other sporting venues.
“He should stick to the UFC,” Rogan said. “They’re going to boo him everywhere else.”
According to Rogan, mixed reactions are a sign that a venue may not be the best fit for Trump. He noted that even if a crowd is split between supporters and critics, the resulting headlines often focus on the negative reactions rather than the positive ones.
The remarks quickly sparked debate online, with supporters and critics sharing competing videos from the NBA Finals game. Some clips highlighted enthusiastic applause and patriotic chants, while others focused on sections of the crowd that booed the president.
Trump, however, pushed back against claims that the reception was negative.
Speaking with reporters after the game, the president said he believed the overwhelming response was positive and energetic.
“I think mostly cheers,” Trump said. “It was loud and very enthusiastic.”
The episode highlights a political reality that has followed Trump for years. Few public figures generate stronger reactions, whether positive or negative, than the former president.
In many parts of the country, Trump remains one of the most popular political leaders in modern history. His appearances at campaign rallies, conservative gatherings, and UFC events routinely draw enthusiastic crowds and widespread media attention.
Rogan pointed out that during the many UFC events he has attended, he has rarely seen Trump receive anything less than a warm welcome from fans.
That observation reflects the strong overlap between Trump’s political base and the audience that frequently attends major UFC events across the country.
Meanwhile, Diaz offered a lighter take on the evening, joking that Trump’s attendance may have brought bad luck to the New York Knicks. The team lost the game, ending an impressive playoff run and disappointing hometown fans.
Beyond the crowd reaction, Trump’s visit also required one of the largest security operations of the NBA season.
The Secret Service, local law enforcement agencies, and arena officials coordinated extensive security measures around Madison Square Garden. Fans faced enhanced screening procedures, additional checkpoints, and longer wait times before entering the arena.
Officials also canceled the traditional outdoor watch party typically held outside the arena due to security concerns and crowd-management challenges associated with a presidential visit.
As the country moves closer to another major election cycle, Trump’s public appearances will continue attracting national attention. Whether he is attending political rallies, sporting events, or major public gatherings, reactions to the president remain a reflection of the deep political divisions that continue to shape America.
One thing is clear: even a night at the NBA Finals can quickly become a national political story when Donald Trump is in the building.
