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UFC Fighter Calls Michelle Obama ‘Man’, Dana White Condemns

6/24/2026

37 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Josh Hokit called Michelle Obama a “man” after beating Derrick Lewis on June 14, 2026.
On The Ariel Helwani Show, Hokit said the remark was a compliment showing Obama works hard like a man.
UFC president Dana White called the comment nasty and false, opposed it, and defended free speech.
Spokesman Steven Cheung praised Hokit’s win and toughness while declining to address the comment, noting Michelle Obama has not responded.

History

Historical Context

In November 1993 Art Davie and Rorion Gracie launched UFC 1, a no-holds-barred tournament that drew 86,592 pay-per-view buys and sparked a national backlash led by Senator John McCain. The early fight for legitimacy set a precedent for the organization’s later battles over public image, echoed today as president Dana White rebuked Josh Hokit’s gendered jab at former First Lady Michelle Obama.

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Story summary

Josh Hokit called Michelle Obama a “man” after beating Derrick Lewis on June 14, 2026.
On The Ariel Helwani Show, Hokit said the remark was a compliment showing Obama works hard like a man.
UFC president Dana White called the comment nasty and false, opposed it, and defended free speech.
Spokesman Steven Cheung praised Hokit’s win and toughness while declining to address the comment, noting Michelle Obama has not responded.

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