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The UFC fighter who mocked Michelle Obama claims it was all a compliment | Arwa Mahdawi

The UFC fighter who mocked Michelle Obama claims it was all a compliment | Arwa Mahdawi

Summary

At a UFC event held on the White House lawn, heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit called Michelle Obama "a man," a comment that received mixed reactions from the audience. Hokit later said he meant it as a compliment about her strength and work ethic and defended his remark as an example of free speech; President Donald Trump did not condemn the comment.

Key Facts

  • Josh Hokit called Michelle Obama "a man" during a UFC event at the White House lawn.
  • The comment was met with a mostly quiet response, along with some boos and laughs.
  • Hokit said he intended the remark as a compliment for Michelle Obama’s strength and ability to handle tough situations.
  • Hokit defended his statement by citing freedom of speech and the ability to "take a jab" without outrage.
  • President Donald Trump did not publicly condemn Hokit's remark.
  • UFC CEO Dana White, an ally of Trump, criticized the comment, calling it "nasty and false" but emphasized his support for free speech.
  • The article links the incident to broader patterns of racism and misogyny, especially the masculinization of Black women, referencing similar experiences of public figures like Serena Williams and Brittney Griner.
  • The article suggests the White House has become more tolerant of racist and misogynistic comments under President Trump’s leadership.
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