The Apotheosis of Donald Trump
The Apotheosis of Donald Trump On the president’s 80th birthday, it became clear that he has entered his decline. By Peter Wehner Alex Brandon / AP June 17, 2026 Share Save Sign up for Inside the Trump Presidency , a newsletter featuring coverage of the second Trump term. It took 250 years and 45 presidents, but cage fighting has finally come to the White House. Donald Trump’s 80th birthday was in many ways the apotheosis of the Trump administration—the Ultimate Fighting Championship held a seven-fight card on the South Lawn of the White House, with the president and members of his family in attendance. The event was garish, lurid, and crass—perfectly calibrated to appeal to the president. A massive military flyover. The use of honor guards to usher UFC fighters into the cage. “Octagon Girls” in sequined red-white-and-blue costumes parading around the cage between rounds. A UFC fighter, during a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, praising “my Lord and savior Jesus Christ” befor...
