White House Doesn't Condemn UFC Fighter's Michelle Obama Comment
Deadline • • general
Key Points:
- UFC fighter Josh Hokit made a controversial comment during a post-fight interview at a South Lawn event, claiming "Michelle Obama is a man," which sparked backlash from various figures including UFC president Dana White and media personalities.
- The White House praised Hokit's victory but has not condemned or addressed his insulting remark about former First Lady Michelle Obama, drawing criticism for the lack of response.
- The comment echoes longstanding racist conspiracy theories about the Obamas, a topic previously amplified by Donald Trump, who questioned Barack Obama's birthplace.
- Democrats criticized the incident, with Rep. Joaquin Castro calling out Paramount+ and CBS for broadcasting the event, which was held on the White House grounds and attended by Paramount CEO David Ellison.
- White House Communications Director Steven Cheung acknowledged Hokit's win and fighting skills but did not comment on the offensive remark, highlighting a perceived double standard compared to the administration's defense of Melania Trump against insults.
