Donald Trump has met his match- Omarosa

The ever unfolding relationship between Donald Trump and Omarosa Manigault Newman has been compared to reality television in recent days. After all, Omarosa rose to stardom as the contestant America loved to hate on the first season of the Apprentice.  

Under the watchful eye of the once again relevant Donald Trump on the show (dusting himself off from controversy, 1980’s tabloid fame and failed real estate endeavors) and in the several years that followed, the pair maintained a mutually beneficial relationship, all the way into the White House. However, when one considers their relationship from a Pro Wrestling perspective that is always top of my mind as the author of TrumpMania: Vince McMahon, WWE and the making of America’s 45th President, it is clear to see that Omarosa is a main eventer.

The apprentice turning on the mentor is a pro wrestling trope many decades old. Perhaps it was best told by Bruno Sammartino and Larry Zbyszko in the early 1980’s, leading to a big cage match in Shea Stadium. The apprentice learns at the foot of her mentor, gains status and understanding but ultimately wants the spotlight for herself and is willing to do whatever it takes to get there.

The apprentice rivalry also includes a major ‘turn’ from good guy (or Face) to bad guy (‘heel’) or vice versa. Depending upon your political persuasion, Omarosa turning on Trump has made her the biggest heel or face in the country. 

Finally, we must have intrigue to reach a main event level. Omarosa taped the President. She is said to have over 200 recordings at the White House and is slowly rolling them out to remain at the top of the news cycle (and sell many books). Any main eventer knows not to give out your best material but to peak towards a WrestleMania worthy main event. 

Lavie Margolin is the author of TrumpMania: Vince McMahon,WWE and the making of America’s 45th President. Connect with him on Twitter via @Laviemarg