During a recent public appearance, President Donald Trump highlighted his long-standing personal relationships with three iconic athletes: boxing legend Muhammad Ali, former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, and NFL Hall of Famer Herschel Walker.
Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; President Donald Trump and Ivanka Trump during the playing off the national anthem in Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; President Donald Trump and Ivanka Trump during the playing off the national anthem in Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
President Donald Trump Boasts About Friendships with Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and Herschel Walker: “Mike’s Been Loyal to Me”
Speaking to supporters and reporters, Trump emphasized loyalty and friendship, particularly in the face of past criticism:
“Muhammad Ali was a friend of mine,” Trump said. “Mike Tyson, boy, I tell you. Mike’s been loyal to me. Whenever they come out they say, ‘Trump’s a racist!’ Mike Tyson comes out and says, ‘He’s not a racist. He’s my friend. He’s been there from the beginning, good times and bad.’
But Mike Tyson’s a great guy, and he’s been loyal, always so loyal.” Trump added: “And Herschel Walker, speaking about loyal, how good a football player was Herschel?”
The comments, reported by The Spun on February 19, 2026, come amid ongoing political discourse and Trump’s continued references to high-profile endorsements and friendships from the worlds of sports and entertainment.
Context Behind the Friendships
Muhammad Ali: Trump has frequently referenced his interactions with the boxing icon, including attending fights and events in the 1980s and 1990s. Ali, who passed away in 2016, was known for his activism and global influence; Trump has cited their acquaintance as evidence of his relationships across racial and cultural lines.
Mike Tyson: The former heavyweight champion has publicly defended Trump multiple times over the years, including statements rejecting accusations of racism. Tyson and Trump have crossed paths in business, entertainment, and boxing circles since the 1980s. Tyson has appeared at Trump events and spoken positively about their personal connection.
Herschel Walker: The former Georgia Bulldogs and NFL star (Dallas Cowboys, Minnesota Vikings) ran for U.S. Senate in Georgia in 2022 with Trump’s endorsement. Walker has remained one of Trump’s most vocal supporters in the sports world, frequently praising him on social media and at rallies.
Why Trump Highlighted These Friendships
Herschel Walker calls the dawgs before the start of a NCAA college football game against Marshall in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, August. 30, 2025. © Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Herschel Walker calls the dawgs before the start of a NCAA college football game against Marshall in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, August. 30, 2025. © Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Trump’s remarks appear aimed at countering long-standing criticisms regarding race and inclusivity, using high-profile Black athletes as examples of personal loyalty and friendship. The comments fit a recurring theme in his public statements, where he often cites endorsements and relationships from the sports world to rebut political opponents.
No new statements from Ali’s estate, Tyson, or Walker were included in the report. Tyson and Walker have both spoken positively about Trump in recent years, consistent with the president’s description.
The story has generated mixed reactions online, with supporters praising the loyalty angle and critics viewing it as deflection. As Trump continues his second term, expect more references to these and other celebrity friendships in future remarks.
What do you think of Trump highlighting these relationships? Share your thoughts below!
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