UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit ignited a firestorm of controversy following his victory at the extraordinary UFC Freedom 250 event held on the South Lawn of the White House. After knocking out Derrick Lewis in the third round, Hokit used his post-fight interview to make a series of inflammatory remarks, culminating in a highly criticised statement about former US First Lady Michelle Obama.
Addressing US President Donald Trump, who was seated ringside, Hokit initially delivered a defiant message, stating, "I’m the man with the plan, the beast that’s ready to feast. You know what? F*** the speech. Shoutout to Trump for having the balls to put some s*** like this on." He then added, "And if I’m gonna say anything, there’s only one person more incredible than the ‘Incredible Hok’, and that’s my Lord and saviour Jesus Christ."
The interview took a sharp turn when Hokit then directly referenced Michelle Obama, asking, "Michelle Obama is a man, am I right America?" The comment immediately sparked outrage and overshadowed his impressive performance in the cage, where he extended his undefeated record to 10-0 against a former title challenger.
Hokit's actions at the White House event are not isolated incidents. He has cultivated a reputation for controversial antics and playing different 'characters' in the build-up to his fights. This behaviour has included referencing personal matters of other fighters, such as the divorce of main-event competitor Ilia Topuria, which led UFC President Dana White to abruptly end a press conference. He also reportedly faked being sick at a weigh-in, dribbling a coloured liquid from his mouth.
During the post-fight celebrations, Hokit had given President Trump his chain, but reports indicate that the President removed it following the comment concerning Michelle Obama. The UFC has yet to issue an official statement regarding Hokit's remarks or any potential repercussions for his conduct.