Josh Hokit stepped into the spotlight at the UFC Freedom 250 event on Sunday night and didn’t exactly cover himself in glory.
While Hokit came out of his heavyweight match against Derrick Lewis a winner, scoring a second-round TKO over the “Black Beast,” the victor then sparked outrage with some controversial comments.
During his post-match in-ring interview with commentator Joe Rogan, Hokit insulted former U.S. first lady Michelle Obama, calling her a man.
What did Hokit say?
“I’m man with the plan, the beast that’s ready to feast. You know what, f*** this speech,” Hokit began his interview.
Hokit thanked U.S. President Donald Trump, who was seated cageside, for hosting the event on the White House’s South lawn, then acknowledged his “lord and saviour.”
That’s when things took a turn, with Hokit dropping some controversial insults.
“Now listen, Alex Pereira, I’m going to chama on your mama,” he said. “And lastly, Michelle Obama is a man! Am I right, America?’’
Hokit then left the octagon, while Rogan wrapped things up by announcing “Ladies and gentlemen, Josh Hokit.”
Pereira, who also later fought on the Freedom 250 card and lost to Justin Gaethje, often uses the Portuguese word “Chama” as a catchphrase, which translates to “Let’s go,” or to “call me.”
How did UFC and the White House react to Hokit?
But it was the comment about Obama that had many people fired up on social media.
The crowd in attendance had a mixed reaction, with some laughter and groans heard on the broadcast.
After the event, UFC boss Dana White was asked about the incident and denounced Hokit’s comments.
“I understand that the Obamas are public figures, but I’m completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families,” White told TIME in a text message. “Everyone knows my position on free speech, but I hate that kind of nonsense.”
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
According to reports, UFC is attempting to have footage of Hokit’s post-match comments scrubbed and has been issuing takedown notices.
Who is Josh Hokit?
Hokit, who goes by the nickname “The Incredible Hok” has a 10-0 record in professional MMA and is seen as a rising star in the UFC. Before Sunday, he had won three straight performance of the night awards for his previous bouts.
During the ceremonial weigh-ins on Saturday, Hokit also caused a scene by saying that he was “drunk” and appearing to vomit on himself.
At the time, Hokit said: “So what, maybe I was drinking last night. Who wouldn’t be. I have a giant black man that wants to knock me out.”