Why Josh Hokit’s Michelle Obama Slur Exposes the UFC’s Deeper Culture Problem
The post-fight slur directed at former First Lady Michelle Obama by UFC prospect Josh Hokit on the White House lawn was widely condemned, but viewing it as an isolated incident ignores a growing trend within the sport.
No matter what the UFC does or where the event is staged, it seems inevitable that someone associated with the company will embarrass themselves on a world stage. At UFC Freedom 250, held on the south lawn of The White House in front of thousands and a Paramount+ audience, a supposed celebration of America's independence devolved into sycophancy.
This was punctuated when someone, expectedly Josh Hokit, made an infamous statement post-fight. Before analyzing that, let's recall the fight itself.
Derrick Lewis (29-14, 25 finishes) once commanded respect for his striking threat. Now, at 41, he’s better known for his comments than his fighting. With little mobility and his head on the center line, Lewis became vulnerable; Hokit dropped him with punches.
Josh Hokit Directs Controversial Slur at Former US First Lady
Typically, post-fight mic time is used to discuss one’s own achievements, request a bonus, or call out future opponents. Hokit chose a more controversial approach.
In channeling a combination of carnival barker and angry neighbor, Hokit aimed at someone who never fought in the cage by saying the following:
"Michelle Obama is a man."
After the biggest moment of his pro career, Hokit decided to make a controversial remark to elicit laughter. One among those reacting was Joe Rogan, whose lack of criticism was apparent.
Josh Hokit's Rationale Behind Remarks
For what reason? UFC Freedom 250 was already a political event, a nationalistic celebration in the guise of a sporting occasion. Yet, Hokit chose to address someone who, as far as is publicly known, had not spoken about him.
As questionable as Hokit's statement was, every comment section under every article detailing the incident revealed not only bias within mixed martial arts but also pervasive bigotry in society at large. The criticism would be just as severe if the target were a former leader's spouse.
In his attempt to deliver a wrestling heel-style promo, Hokit neglected wrestling's cardinal rule: describe why people should watch your next fight. He failed at this. The outspoken fighter, who reportedly arrived at pre-fight events impaired and suffered an embarrassing incident, merely sought shock value.
Dana White Responds to Josh Hokit's Slur
Today, UFC President Dana White issued this statement regarding Hokit:
"I understand that the Obamas are public figures, but I'm completely against saying nasty and false things about people's families. Everyone knows my position on free speech, but I hate that kind of nonsense."
Dana White's response rings hollow, given his history of tolerating, or even encouraging, inflammatory comments from athletes when they seek to stir controversy or attract attention. While he claims to dislike "nonsense," his actions suggest controversy is tolerated for the sake of promotion, behaviors not generally accepted by leaders of other major sports organizations. On top of that, trash talk often goes sideways.
Final Thoughts
The people most affected in this situation are not necessarily Josh Hokit, who will likely earn a bigger payday against a more prominent opponent, but the other fighters. Many competitors compete professionally and go home quietly. Instead, some will now face questions about Hokit's comments.
Previously, the general public sometimes viewed MMA through unflattering stereotypes. In reality, Hokit did a disservice to himself, his fellow fighters, and the sport. Lastly, he cemented his legacy with his words, regardless of future in-cage accomplishments.
When you're on the way up, people laugh with you. On the way down, they may laugh at you. They are not the same.
