UFC boss distances himself from fighter's Obama remark: Report

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President Donald J. Trump attends UFC Freedom 250

UFC Freedom 250 at the White House turned out to be a surreal sporting event celebrating America’s 250th birthday, blending sports, politics and entertainment in a way never seen before.

The fights delivered exactly what the UFC hoped for, marking the first event in promotional history in which every main card bout ended by knockout or technical knockout. The night was capped by American underdog Justin Gaethje upsetting Georgia’s Ilia Topuria, the world's No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter, to capture the UFC lightweight championship.

Gaethje’s win was one of a couple of upsets on the night, as fan favorites took center stage in front of the crowd's "USA! USA! USA!" chants. However, there is one fighter whose post-fight comments could overshadow an otherwise spectacular event.

Josh Hokit post-fight interview

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: Josh Hokit celebrates a win against Derrick Lewis in a heavyweight fight during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

A heavyweight bout between Josh Hokit and Derrick Lewis was held deep into the night, which found Hokit dispatching his opponent in the second round.

What they're saying:

After the fight, podcaster and UFC fight commentator interviewed Hokit in the ring about his victory. Hokit took the moment to go off script and direct an attack at former First Lady Michelle Obama, saying to the crowd, "Lastly, Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?"

Hokit would later walk out of the Octagon, to a mixed reaction of laughter and some groans, after greeting President Trump and presenting him with a medallion.

Dana White responds to Hokit’s comment

In a Time Magazine report, the outlet reached out to UFC’s President and CEO, Dana White, to ask him his thoughts on the fighter’s remark regarding the former first lady.

"I understand that the Obama’s are public figures but I’m completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families," White, the UFC CEO, told TIME in a text message. "Everyone knows my position on free speech but I hate that kind of nonsense."

White has previously distanced himself from Hokit’s rhetoric. The fighter has become a polarizing figure among fans because of his brash personality and a history of controversial remarks. During an earlier press conference promoting the UFC White House event, Hokit was removed after his trash talk sparked a tense confrontation with other fighters.

The other side:

According to the Time report, the White House has not responded to their request for comment about Hokit.

President Trump took to social media the day after the event, describing it as an incredible evening on his Truth Social account.