UFC Fighter Josh Hokit Defends Michelle Obama Slur at White House Event

UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit called former First Lady Michelle Obama a “man” during his post‑fight interview at the White House Freedom 250 event on June 14, 2026. He later told Ariel Helwani that he meant it as a “compliment,” saying the comment was a way to showcase “freedom of speech.”

Hokit has refused to apologize, doubling down on the remark and stating he “couldn’t care less what anybody thinks.” UFC president Dana White condemned the comments as “nasty” and “disgusting,” while podcaster Joe Rogan argued that Hokit should never have been invited to fight on the White House lawn. The incident sparked widespread backlash across media and social platforms.

Despite criticism, Hokit maintains that his remarks were intended to highlight resilience, saying Michelle Obama “knows how to deal with adversity, work hard like a man when times are tough.” The White House declined to comment on the controversy.