UFC star ignites controversy at Trump-held event: 'Michelle Obama is a man'

During his post-fight speech at the UFC Freedom 250 event, heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit made a false and offensive remark about Michelle Obama, saying, "And lastly, Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?"

The event was held as part of the "America 250" celebrations marking the country's anniversary. President Donald Trump, who was hosting the fight, was seen smiling briefly following the remark. The crowd responded with a mix of cheers and boos, says Yahoo Sports.

UFC CEO and President Dana White condemned the comments. In a text message to Time magazine, White described the remark as "nasty and false," and dismissed it as "nonsense". He said he supports free speech but is "completely against saying nasty and false things about people's families".

It was not immediately clear whether Hokit would face disciplinary action from the UFC.

The White House declined to condemn the remarks. When asked for comment, White House communications director Steven Cheung focused on Hokit's performance, saying he "had a great win" and "showed toughness".

Officials did not respond to questions about how the administration's silence aligned with its past objections to insults directed at First Lady Melania Trump.

The incident drew criticism from some supporters of the "America 250" events. Fox News columnist David Marcus called the comment "utterly unacceptable" for an official White House event and said he was disappointed the celebrations did not remain non-partisan.

The Democratic Party's official X account posted a photo of Michelle Obama with the caption: "Michelle Obama lives in their heads rent-free".

The sources also note that President Trump has previously criticized the Obamas, including sharing a video depicting them as apes, which he later said was posted by a staffer.

CNN said it contacted Michelle Obama's office for comment following the event.