Kamaru Usman has come under fire for endorsing Donald Trump as Nigerians continue to criticise his decision.
Kamaru Usman, the Nigerian-American UFC fighter known as “The Nigerian Nightmare,” has found himself in the centre of a social media storm after publicly endorsing Donald Trump for the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
In a bold tweet shared on X (formerly Twitter), Usman voiced his support for Trump, saying, “Growing up Democrat and starting to understand the state of politics over the last few decades, I know how I want to live and how I want to raise my family @realDonaldTrump.”
Trump, evidently pleased, responded with, “A great honor, from a great fighter. Thank you!”
Usman, a former UFC Welterweight Champion, is no stranger to fierce battles in the ring, but his recent political endorsement has sparked an equally intense reaction outside it.
His support comes as Trump’s campaign actively seeks to broaden appeal among minority groups, including African and immigrant communities, especially as the race tightens in critical states.
The election polls indicate a close race, with FiveThirtyEight showing Kamala Harris holding a narrow lead of 48.1% over Trump’s 46.8%.
US Elections 2024: Kamaru Usman sparks ‘angry’ reactions from Nigerians over Donald Trump endorsement
Usman’s post has since sparked a wave of criticism from his Nigerian fan base, with social media reactions showcasing intense frustration.
Many were quick to slam the 37-year-old Auchi-born fighter, with comments criticising both his political choice and his connection to his Nigerian roots.
The backlash on social media was immediate and fierce.
One user lashed out, writing, “They should send you back to your village mumu,” highlighting a sense of betrayal some feel over his endorsement.
Another user pointed out Usman’s immigrant background, saying, “As an African immigrant whose father was incarcerated, how can you vote for Trump?”
The discontent continued with a comment that read, “Always the men in violent sports supporting this clown! U r a disgrace.”
Others noted Trump’s controversial past policies affecting Nigeria, with one user remarking, “Mind you, Nigeria was one of the countries Trump had a travel ban on.”
Another quipped, “A Nigerian man never disappoints, really. Lol, not surprised.”
The harsh reactions underscore the sensitivity around Trump’s political stance among African communities and reflect some fans’ deep disapproval of Usman’s public support.