UFC fighter Josh Hokit has defended his controversial statement calling Michelle Obama a “man,” saying it was intended as a “compliment.”
Hokit's Explanation
In an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hokit stated, “I thought I was giving her a compliment.” Helwani expressed skepticism, questioning how such a remark could be seen positively. Hokit elaborated, “Michelle Obama being a man... she knows how to deal with adversity. She knows how to work hard like a man when the times get tough.”
Context of the Comment
The comment was made during a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan after Hokit's victory over Derrick Lewis at the UFC Freedom 250 event on June 14, held on the White House lawn. Helwani asked why Hokit made such a statement, to which he replied, “I thought it was a perfect opportunity to show the world how great this country is with freedom of speech.” He added, “You go somewhere else in the world and you say something like that and you die. And I’m not suicidal by the way. I’m in good spirits.”
Hokit's Stance on Regret
When asked if he regretted his comment, Hokit firmly stated, “That’s one thing about my career. … You’ll never hear me backtrack from what I say.”
Reactions and Backlash
UFC president and CEO Dana White was among those criticizing Hokit's remarks. Speaking to The Los Angeles Times, White said, “I am completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families.” He continued, “Everyone knows my position on free speech but I hate that kind of nonsense.”
Watch Hokit's appearance on Helwani’s show here.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/ufc-fighter-josh-hokit-michelle-obama-man-compliment-1236628890/
