Josh Hokit left the crowd stunned after shouting, “Michelle Obama is a man, am I right America?” moments after scoring a knockout victory at the White House-hosted UFC Freedom 250 event.
The controversial remark came during Hokit’s post-fight interview with Joe Rogan as former president Donald Trump watched from cageside.
The undefeated heavyweight had just stopped Derrick Lewis in a dominant performance, but his comments immediately overshadowed the victory and sparked a fierce reaction online.
Some fans cheered while others booed as Hokit made the statement, which was not challenged by Rogan or addressed by the UFC broadcast team.
The bizarre moment capped another headline-grabbing week for the 28-year-old fighter, who has built a reputation for stirring controversy almost as often as he wins fights. From chaotic press conference appearances to bizarre weigh-in antics and inflammatory remarks aimed at fellow fighters, Hokit has become one of the UFC’s most polarising personalities.
Before delivering the controversial comment, Hokit had used his post-fight interview to praise Trump for hosting the historic event on the South Lawn of the White House.
“You know what? Forget the speech. Shoutout to Trump for having the balls to put something like this on,” Hokit said.
The heavyweight then thanked Jesus Christ, called out former UFC champion Alex Pereira and appeared ready to leave the microphone before making the remark that instantly ignited debate across social media.
Earlier in the celebrations, Hokit had handed Trump a chain and pendant, which the former president briefly wore while acknowledging the fighter’s victory. According to pool reports from the event, Trump later removed the jewellery after Hokit exited the Octagon.
The reaction online was swift, with critics condemning the comment while supporters defended the fighter’s right to express his views. Within minutes, clips of the interview were circulating widely across social media platforms.
The controversy was hardly out of character for Hokit, who has spent much of the build-up to UFC Freedom 250 generating headlines for his unpredictable behaviour.
During fight week, he repeatedly referred to himself as “The Incredible Hok” and drew attention with a series of unusual appearances and comments.
One press conference reportedly ended abruptly after Hokit made personal remarks involving UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, prompting UFC president Dana White to bring proceedings to a close.
At Friday’s weigh-ins, Hokit staged another bizarre moment when he appeared to spit a green liquid from his mouth while joking that he had been drinking the night before.
He had also previously been escorted away by security during a promotional event after exchanging insults with Topuria and heavyweight contender Alex Pereira.
Despite the off-stage drama, there is little question about his talent inside the cage.
Facing former heavyweight title challenger Derrick Lewis, one of the UFC’s most dangerous knockout artists, Hokit delivered another commanding performance to extend his unbeaten record to 10-0.
The victory strengthened his growing case for a future title opportunity and further established him as one of the division’s rising stars.
Yet once again, it was not his fighting ability that dominated the headlines.
Instead, a few controversial words spoken in front of thousands of fans at the White House ensured that Hokit remained one of the most talked-about figures in mixed martial arts.
Whether admired, criticised or condemned, the undefeated heavyweight continues to prove that whenever he steps into the spotlight, controversy is never far behind.
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