UFC fighter Josh Hokit shouts 'Michelle Obama is a man' in post-match interview

WASHINGTON, DC: UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit sparked controversy on Sunday, July 14, night after making a remark about former First Lady Michelle Obama during a post-fight interview following his victory at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House lawn. 

The comment came moments after Hokit defeated Derrick Lewis and addressed the crowd from inside the cage. The event was attended by President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and UFC CEO Dana White. While the event featured several high-profile fights and celebrations, Hokit’s comments quickly became one of the most-discussed moments of the night.

Hokit shouts, ‘Michelle Obama is a man’

After defeating Lewis, Hokit spoke with commentator Joe Rogan during the live broadcast. The undefeated heavyweight began by thanking Trump and praising the event. “You know what? F*** the speech. Shoutout to Trump for having the balls to put some s*** like this on,” Hokit said.

He continued, “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 an unexpected turn when Hokit concluded his remarks with a reference to former First Lady Michelle Obama. Hokit said, “Michelle Obama is a man, am I right, America?” 

The comment was met with a brief reaction from the crowd. Rogan did not respond to the statement and instead concluded the segment by saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, Josh Hokit.”

The remarks also gained criticism from Democratic Rep Melanie Stansbury, who wrote on X, “The dude who puked on himself live on TV during his weigh-in, is hurling insults at the former First Lady now?" 

Fighter celebrates with Trump at the cageside

Following the victory, Hokit celebrated near the cageside where Trump was seated alongside Melania Trump and White.

During the post-fight festivities, Hokit also handed Trump his chain before later speaking with broadcaster Joe Rogan inside the cage.

Undefeated heavyweight continues to rise with victory over Lewis

Away from the controversy, Hokit secured one of the biggest victories of his MMA career by stopping former title challenger Derrick Lewis in the third round. The win improved Hokit’s professional record to 10-0 and extended his unbeaten run since transitioning to mixed martial arts after careers in wrestling and football.

Lewis entered the bout as one of the UFC’s most accomplished heavyweights and the promotion’s all-time knockout leader. However, Hokit controlled the contest and ultimately earned the finish to continue his climb up the heavyweight rankings.