Trump’s pants spark catheter rumors at UFC event — here’s what really happened
Viral photo fuels health speculation, but experts and fact-checkers say claims don’t hold up
A viral photo of Donald Trump at a UFC event on June 9 led to widespread rumors he was wearing a catheter — but fact-checkers and medical professionals confirm the claim is unfounded.
When Donald Trump appeared at a UFC event in Newark, New Jersey, on June 9, fans were more focused on his outfit than the fighters. In a photo showing MMA champion Kayla Harrison placing a title belt around Trump’s waist, a line running down his pant leg triggered a firestorm of online speculation.
Many on social media claimed the former president was wearing a Foley catheter — a medical device used to help people who can’t urinate on their own. TikTok videos, X (formerly Twitter) posts, and Facebook comments poured in with detailed theories. One viral comment even stated, “That line down his pants? Not a crease. It’s tubing.”
What is a Foley catheter?
A Foley catheter is a soft, flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine into a bag that’s often strapped to the leg. It’s commonly used after surgery or for people with serious health conditions. According to the Cleveland Clinic, they’re usually temporary and not used for people who can walk around normally unless medically necessary.
Given this, the idea of Trump — an active public figure — wearing one during a public event drew both skepticism and concern.
Health rumors aren’t new for Trump
Trump’s health has been a topic of public interest for years. As the oldest U.S. president to start a second term, every detail of his physical appearance is under the microscope. In April, Trump’s physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, reported that the president was in “robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function.”
The report included:
- Height: 6’3″ (75 inches)
- Weight: 224 pounds
- Diagnoses: Benign polyp, diverticulitis (inflammation in the colon)
- Medications: Cholesterol management, cardiac prevention, and a cream for a skin condition
- Surgeries: Bilateral cataract removal
Barbabella concluded that Trump’s active lifestyle contributed to his well-being and said he was fully fit to serve as president.
The official response: “Fake and ridiculous”
To set the record straight, fact-checking site Snopes looked into the viral photo. Their verdict: The catheter theory doesn’t hold up. A closer look reveals the line on Trump’s pants is just a crease — not a medical tube.
White House spokesperson Steven Cheung strongly denied the claims, calling them “fake” and “conspiracy theories peddled by demented individuals.” He emphasized Trump’s health report as proof of his fitness and accused critics of suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
Visual rumors like these can spread fast and shape public opinion, even when there’s no evidence. That’s why fact-checking and medical clarity are more important than ever.
It’s probably just a crease
While online speculation can be entertaining or alarming, it’s crucial to pause and verify before jumping to conclusions. In this case, the viral image of Trump likely shows nothing more than a sharp crease in his pants — not a hidden health device.
