Detractors have dismissed Donald Trump as a political has-been who has lost his touch - but you would never know from watching the 77-year-old engage with a crowd.

The celebrity president's charisma shined at a star-studded UFC fight in Las Vegas on Saturday night, where he mingled with celebrities and shook hands with amazed fans. 

Trump's dramatic entrance at UFC 290 - and the enthusiastic response - caused a stir on social media, where his third presidential campaign has been hotly debated for months.

Trump captivates

While critics argue Trump is no longer as popular or exciting as he once was, the former president entered the T-Mobile arena to a hero's welcome - joined by UFC president Dana White and an entourage of Secret Service agents.

And the crowd goes absolutely wild for @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/rToI1XogN1

— Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) July 9, 2023

Trump was also spotted talking to celebrities like The Passion of the Christ director Mel Gibson - who, like Trump, is persona non grata with the Hollywood "in" crowd - and reality TV chef Guy Fieri, whose friendly interaction with Trump led to viral outrage.

Meanwhile, ultra-popular podcaster and UFC commentator Joe Rogan was all smiles as he received a vigorous handshake from the Donald.

Trump just hit Joe Rogan with the alpha 5 min handshake.

Trump can’t be stopped 😂#UFC290 #UFC

pic.twitter.com/aax0JL2kYi

— Chris Mancuso (@SeltzerKing_) July 9, 2023

Celebrity president

Trump also received a hearty hello from UFC fighter Dricus Du Plessis, who leapt over the cage to shake hands with Trump after defeating Robert Whittaker.

Trump ally Roger Stone shared a photo of Trump, Stone, and Gibson having a conversation.

Shooting the sh*t with @realDonaldTrump and #MelGibson at the UFC fight in Vegas pic.twitter.com/nVnwYFotfA

— Roger Stone (@RogerJStoneJr) July 9, 2023

"Gloves are off"

Prior to the fight, Trump gave a combative speech where he warned the "gloves are off" in his rivalry with Democratic president Joe Biden, who is behind Trump in numerous polls even as Trump faces two unprecedented criminal indictments.

Trump also ripped "overrated" Republican rival Ron DeSantis, saying the Florida governor - who has struggled in the polls since a highly anticipated campaign launch - "has no personality."

"I’m not a big fan of his and he’s highly overrated. He’s highly overrated,” Trump said.

Trump stopped at a Dairy Queen in Iowa the day earlier, where he showed off his famed relatability by purchasing frozen desserts for the crowd there.