US President Donald Trump’s visibly discoloured hand sparked immediate online concern as he arrived at the UFC Freedom 250 event in Washington DC.
Trump, who turned 80 on Sunday, was filmed walking to his ringside seat alongside UFC president and CEO Dana White, where the pair watched the event from the front row. The occasion itself drew controversy after several fights were staged on the South Lawn of the White House, an area many consider to be of historic and symbolic significance.
Sharp-eyed viewers again noticed what has been seen during several recent public appearances, with some suggesting the President’s hand appeared to be covered in heavy makeup, giving it an unusual tone, according to posts circulating on X.
Journalist Aaron Rupar shared an image on X showing the back of Trump’s right hand, which appeared noticeably discoloured with prominent veins visible beneath the surface. He wrote: “the back of Trump’s hand is extremely discolored tonight at the UFC White House event.”
Reactions quickly followed on social media, with users offering a range of interpretations and speculation.
One X user wrote: “Oof, that honestly looks terrifying.”
Another, Kalvexa, said: “That’s foundation for make-up.”
Mike Dickson added: “Looks like he’s been embalmed. #CadaverHand. Do you have any footage showing this dying man holding on for life? Look at that sour puss too. Not too happy about turning 80.”
Others suggested possible medical explanations, with Mad Genius commenting: “Trump is likely taking blood thinners that cause skin bruising. I would like to see the list of medications he’s on.”
Another user wrote: “He’s rotting from the inside out.”
The event is notable not only for its historic setting, but also because it is one of the few combat sports cards staged outdoors, rather than in the controlled environment of an arena or training facility that fighters are typically used to.
However, with less than two hours before the opening bout was due to begin, that lack of environmental control forced UFC organisers to adjust plans.
A UFC representative told Irish Star Sports that the first fight on Sunday is now expected to start around 9pm ET, as thunderstorms are forecast to move through the area in the coming hours. There has been no official confirmation on the exact start time.
The revised schedule represents a delay of roughly one hour compared with the original timetable. The change also comes as the promotion confirmed coverage on Paramount Plus will now begin at 8pm, cutting some of the planned pre-fight broadcast.