In a testament to their long-standing friendship, Dana White, the president of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), will take the stage on Thursday night to introduce Donald Trump as he officially accepts the Republican presidential nomination. White, known for his unfiltered and unorthodox style, has been a vocal supporter of Trump outside of politics, and the two have maintained a close relationship since at least 2001.

During a time when MMA was facing a downturn, White recalls how Trump played a pivotal role in boosting the sport's profile. After legalizing the sport in New Jersey in 2000, Trump invited the UFC to host events at the Trump Taj Mahal casino and hotel in Atlantic City. Trump himself attended the UFC 31 and UFC 32 MMA events, showcasing his support for the sport and aiding in securing larger venues for future events.

The friendship between White and Trump has extended beyond the world of MMA. White endorsed Trump at the Republican National Convention in 2016, praising his work ethic and business instincts. Continuing his support at the 2020 RNC, White emphasized the importance of re-electing Trump and commended his record in office.

Known for his brash and uncensored demeanor, White has made it clear that he does not shy away from mixing business and politics. Despite his own controversies, including a public altercation with his wife last year, White has remained unwavering in his support for Trump, often inviting him as a guest to special UFC events.

While Trump has received thunderous ovations from partisan crowds at UFC events, it remains to be seen if this love affair will translate to other sports arenas that were previously Trump-friendly, such as Nascar and the PGA Tour. The failed assassination attempt on Trump has only reinforced White's support for the former president's re-election, calling him the "legitimate, ultimate, American badass of all time."

As Trump prepares to deliver his nomination speech, media reports suggest that he has rewritten it to emphasize unity following the recent shooting incident. However, if White's previous convention speeches are any indication, his introduction to the main event may not strike the same conciliatory tone. The convention will also feature a speech by controversial pro-wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, promising an electrifying atmosphere reminiscent of a WWE spectacle.

In the world of combat sports and politics, the friendship between Dana White and Donald Trump has remained unwavering. Whether they are seen as ultimate badasses or not, their partnership continues to make waves on both the UFC stage and the political arena.