How Donald Trump’s Clothesline Came to Life at WrestleMania 23

Donald Trump’s involvement in the 2007 WrestleMania 23 Battle of the Billionaires remains one of WWE’s most iconic—and bizarre—moments. Represented by Bobby Lashley, Trump went head-to-head (well, manager-to-manager) with Vince McMahon, who was backed by the late, great Umaga. The high-stakes match concluded with McMahon’s legendary locks hitting the mat after Lashley secured the win.

On the Insight podcast, Lashley reflected on the match’s buildup, calling it “funny all the way through.” Watching Trump and McMahon engage in verbal sparring was, in Lashley’s words, “two powerhouses going back and forth, and they’re on top of everything.”

The event’s promotional materials initially had a different vibe. According to Lashley, “Somebody put it down on paper that me and Umaga were supposed to sit in the chairs and have those guys [Trump and McMahon] standing with their hands on our shoulders.” Trump, however, nixed that idea, reportedly saying, “No, I don’t think we should do this… it makes me look old.”

Trump’s involvement in the actual match was equally memorable—and unpolished. During the chaos, Trump delivered a now-famous clothesline to McMahon, a move that Lashley revealed wasn’t prepped in advance. “Trump wanted to be a part of it. He wanted to do something. He was like, ‘I want to beat somebody up.’”

McMahon, ever the prankster, saw this as an opportunity. Lashley shared, “Vince’s whole thing was like, ‘Haha, when he starts punching me, I’m gonna put my head down so he could punch my head. That’s the hardest part of my head, so it’s gonna hurt his hand.’”

The match not only showcased Trump’s enthusiasm for theatrics but also became a lasting part of his public persona. The clothesline clip was later used by Trump himself to mock the media during his political career.

What’s your take on Trump’s Battle of the Billionaires moment? Was it a perfect mix of sports entertainment and celebrity chaos, or just another wild WWE spectacle? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your opinions!