UFC heavyweight contender Derrick Lewis is a fighter whose post-fight interviews are often as memorable and impactful as his knockout victories. Known for his candid and frequently humorous remarks delivered with a distinct Texas drawl, Lewis recently revealed an interaction that stands out even among his most notable octagon moments: a direct phone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking openly from the octagon following a bout, Lewis explained why that specific occasion held particular significance for him. He stated that the conversation with the former President was a highlight. According to Lewis, they initiated discussions about “business,” though he suggested deferring a more comprehensive talk until he could make an in-person visit to the White House. This indicates the potential for future, more formal discussions beyond the immediate post-fight context.
“It was really great that he spoke with me,” Lewis remarked, expressing his appreciation for the former President taking the time to connect.
The details shared by Lewis also shed light on the setup of this high-profile call. He mentioned requesting UFC President Dana White to facilitate the conversation, specifying that he had asked for a period of a few weeks to make the connection possible. This suggests the call, while occurring in the immediate aftermath of a fight, was not entirely spontaneous but rather a planned interaction facilitated by Lewis`s request.
Expanding on the content of their discussion, Lewis touched upon subjects beyond business, mentioning “terrorists and other matters.” While he did not elaborate extensively on the specifics of these sensitive topics, the mere mention in a post-fight interview setting highlighted the unusual nature of the call`s content given the context.
In typical Lewis fashion, a moment of characteristic dry humor punctuated the recounting of the conversation when the topic turned to the FBI. Lewis, who has previously expressed skepticism regarding the agency, recounted telling the former President, in a moment of perhaps ironic jest coupled with genuine sentiment, to “make sure my name isn’t on their list.” This quip underscores Lewis`s unique personality and his ability to blend serious topics with lighthearted, albeit pointed, humor.
Lewis`s account offers a brief, intriguing glimpse into the unexpected connections that can bridge the worlds of professional combat sports and high-level politics, delivered with the same blunt honesty and entertainment value that fans have come to expect from `The Black Beast`.
Rupert Hartwell