UMVA has learned that a shocking comment made by a UFC fighter about former First Lady Michelle Obama has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
Josh Hokit, the fighter who made the remark, claimed that his comment was meant as a compliment, saying that Michelle Obama's ability to deal with adversity and work hard is reminiscent of a man's qualities.
In a recent interview, Hokit explained that he was trying to highlight the former First Lady's strength and resilience, saying "Michelle Obama being a man, that's like — she knows how to deal with adversity. She knows how to work hard like a man when the times get tough."
The comment was made during a victory speech at the UFC's Freedom 250 fight on the White House lawn, where Hokit asked, "Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?" The remark sparked immediate backlash, with many criticizing Hokit for his insensitive and sexist comment.
UFC CEO Dana White was among those who condemned Hokit's comment, calling it "nasty and false." White's strong reaction was a clear indication that Hokit's remark had crossed a line.
Hokit, who has a reputation for making provocative comments, told the interviewer that his strategy is part of a "numbers game" designed to get a reaction. He emphasized that his jab at the former First Lady was an exercise in free speech.
The fighter claimed that he saw his comment as an opportunity to demonstrate the value of free speech in the United States, saying "You go somewhere and you say something like that and you die, you know?"
Hokit also made headlines when he gave President Donald Trump his victory medal after the fight. His comments about Michelle Obama have not gone unnoticed, but so far, the former First Lady has not publicly responded.
In the interview, Hokit doubled down on his statement, saying "There's a certain side that pokes at another side, and there's no outrage there. And so I thought it was a perfect time to take a jab." He made it clear that he does not regret making the comment.
