Trump Recalls Helping Kobe Bryant Resolve Altercation

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In a wide-ranging interview with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, former President Donald Trump revealed that he once helped resolve an altercation involving the late Kobe Bryant. Trump said he stepped in to break up a fight Kobe was having with someone, though he noted it was "probably not a smart thing to do" historically. The 79-year-old president also praised his own immigration policies while criticizing those of his successor, President Joe Biden.

Why it matters

Trump's recollection of helping Kobe Bryant diffuses a potentially tense situation, showing a softer side of the former president. The anecdote also provides a rare glimpse into Trump's personal interactions with high-profile figures. Additionally, Trump's comments on immigration policy highlight the ongoing political divide on the issue.

The details

During the 27-minute interview, Jake Paul asked Trump if he had ever been in a fight, mentioning a rumor about Trump helping Kobe Bryant at a game. Trump confirmed the story, saying, "Kobe was having a hard time with somebody and it worked out fine, but yeah, I broke it up. Probably not a smart thing to do. Historically, it's never good to break up fights." Trump also praised his own immigration policies, claiming the U.S. had 11,888 murderers enter the country under previous administrations, but that his administration had stopped all immigration in the last nine months.

• The interview between Trump and Jake Paul took place on March 13, 2026.

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