UFC CEO Breaks Silence on Fighter's Michelle Obama Tirade
The internet was in an uproar on June 14 after UFC Freedom 250 heavyweight champion Josh Hokit used his victory speech on the White House lawn to bash former first lady Michelle Obama. One day later, the organizer of the event, UFC CEODana White, says he's "completely against" Hokit's tirade.
"I understand that the Obamas are public figures, but I'm completely against saying nasty and false things about people's families," White told TIME in a post-fight interview over text after Hokit called Obama "a man."
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"Everyone knows my position on free speech but I hate that kind of nonsense," White added.
The situation started immediately after Hokit defeated Derrick Lewis for the heavyweight title at the massive event. "You know what? F–k this speech," the notoriously incendiary athlete began. "Shout out to [President Donald] Trump for having the balls to put some s–t like this on. And if I'm going to say anything, there's only one person more incredible than the Incredible Hok, and that's my lord and savior Jesus Christ."
He also threw a jab about fellow fighter Alex Pereira's mother before concluding, "Last thing: Michelle Obama is a man! Am I right America?"
The internet was immediately upset about the statement, with commenters on X calling it "disgraceful" and criticizing host Joe Rogan and White for not saying anything in the moment. "The crazy part was no apology from UFC or the announcers saying they don't condone that behavior. SMH," said one.
Now, they're reacting to White's statement about the situation. While some are happy to see him call out the behavior, with one writing, "Good on him," others questioned White's sincerity.
"If he hated it, he'd fine the guy or suspend him. But he won't, because he doesn't," said one X user, while another added, "His position on free speech is you can say what you want as Dana likes it." Another added, "'I hate this nonsense' -Guy that regularly and intentionally surrounds himself with this nonsense."
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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 7:51 AM.