UFC CEO Dana White broke his silence about the fighter who made disparaging remarks about Michelle Obama at the Freedom 250 fight on Sunday at the White House, criticizing the fighter for saying something “nasty” about the former first lady.
“I understand that the Obamas are public figures but I’m completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families,” White wrote Time Magazine in a text message. “Everyone knows my position on free speech, but I hate that kind of nonsense.”
After heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit defeated fellow American Derrick Lewis, Hokit was interviewed on Paramount+ by podcaster Joe Rogan.
Hokit took over the microphone, praising President Donald Trump for organizing the historic match. Before leaving the Octagon, Hokit shouted into the mic, “And lastly, Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?”
Following the comment, Rogan backed away from the fighter, saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, Josh Hokit.”
The remark received mixed reactions from the live audience, drawing both cheers and screams of boos. Throughout the rest of the broadcast, the comment went unaddressed, but social media users were quick to criticize the remarks online.
White House communications director Steven Cheung dodged a question about Hokit’s comments at the fight, pivoting to praising the fighter.
“He had a great win last night. He showed toughness and the ability to pressure his opponent both on his feet and on the ground,” according to CNN anchor Jake Tapper, who posted about the exchange on X.
DANA WHITE ON WHITE HOUSE FIGHT: ‘WE’LL NEVER DO THIS AGAIN’
The former first lady has not yet commented on Hokit’s remarks.
The fight was organized as one of many events to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. It also coincided with Flag Day and Trump’s 80th birthday.