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Political developments involving Venezuela have drawn attention within the MMA community after reports surfaced this week that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured by U.S. special forces and transferred to the United States to face federal charges. The situation prompted reactions from several high-profile figures, including former UFC champions.

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Among them was Julianna Pena, a two-time UFC women’s bantamweight champion who has Venezuelan heritage and is widely known by the nickname “The Venezuelan Vixen.”

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Pena addressed the situation indirectly through social media. On her Instagram Story, she reposted a video clip from August 2024 showing Maduro delivering a public speech in which he challenged then U.S. President Donald Trump. In the clip, Maduro dared Trump to arrest him at the Miraflores Palace in Caracas.

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“Come for me. I am waiting for you here in Miraflores. Don’t be late, coward,” Maduro said in the address.

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The video has resurfaced online following news of Maduro’s reported capture and has circulated widely across social media platforms. Pena did not include additional commentary alongside the repost.

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Penna has previously expressed support for Donald Trump and has been seen with him at multiple UFC events. Trump has also maintained close ties with the UFC, frequently appearing alongside UFC President Dana White at major events. At UFC 316 last year, Penna finally met Trump in person, leaving the star ‘starstruck.’

The situation continues to generate reactions as further details emerge regarding Maduro’s legal status and international response.

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UFC star Conor McGregor publicly lauded Donald Trump aftermath of Maduro’s arrest

Conor McGregor never misses a chance to impress American President Donald Trump. Recently, Trump and U.S. forces grabbed headlines for their latest operation in the Western world, and a striking video celebrating Nicolás Maduro’s capture began circulating on social media. The video shows slow-motion shots set to Hypnotize by Notorious B.I.G., with Donald Trump at the center, which immediately captured McGregor’s attention.

In his signature style, McGregor shared the video on X with the caption, “My entrance music,” hinting at what might be coming. Interestingly, he later deleted the post, though he had previously used the same track for his UFC walkouts, which only fueled the buzz.

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McGregor has long supported Donald Trump and, more recently, strengthened their ties through business, as the Trump family invested in his MMA venture. He has also actively promoted his role in the UFC White House event, which is now scheduled for June 14, Trump’s birthday, on the South Lawn.

While officials have not confirmed the fight card, we should learn more in the coming weeks. Do you think McGregor will headline the card despite his recent inactivity? Share your thoughts below.

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Written by

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Ishan Yadav

2,868 Articles

Ishan Yadav is a Senior UFC Writer at EssentiallySports and a key member of the Breaking News team known for his sharp post-fight coverage and insightful analysis. With a strong editorial instinct and high fight IQ, he skillfully balances the fans' perspective with technical breakdowns to deliver engaging content that resonates throughout the MMA community. His thoughtful takes have gained recognition on platforms like Reddit and from industry insiders, which helped him earn a place in EssentiallySports’ prestigious Journalistic Excellence Program (JEP), our flagship initiative that focuses on refining journalistic skills, enhancing analytical thinking, and deepening sports journalism knowledge through mentorship from seasoned industry veterans. Ishan’s background as a law graduate adds depth to his reporting. He also practiced law after enrolling in the Bar Council. Currently, Ishan is pursuing a Master of Laws in Banking, Corporate, Finance, and Securities Law, and continues to follow his passion for the sport of combat.

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