Seen on DU: Trump & Clinton struck a deal in which he plays "the heel".

[Lodestar]

7. Trump made a video that basically said just that.

I believe it was for one of the late night talk shows (can't remember which...Kimmel?).
He basically told people they were so stupid to believe his schtick. That video was the
only thing out of his mouth that was remotely believable.

So I find the whole thing entirely within the realm of possibility.
He's all about theatre and can easily play the role of antagonist like he does with his
wrestling buddies. That's exactly the role he's played and does it well.