UFC fighter Josh Hokit, 28, used a derogatory slur against former First Lady Michelle Obama during Donald Trump's 80th birthday UFC event at the White House. Hokit, who had pretended to vomit on himself during the weigh-in after claiming he was 'drinking,' told reporters: 'Shout out to Trump for having the balls to put some s— like this on.' He added: 'There's only one person more incredible than the Incredible Hulk, and that's my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.' 'And lastly, Michelle Obama is a man! Am I right, America?' The crowd laughed as he walked away.
Background Controversy
Earlier this year, the White House removed a racist video depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told Metro at the time to 'stop the fake outrage and report on something today that actually matters to the American public.'
Other Incidents at the Event
UFC champion Sean Strickland, who has been critical of President Trump, was escorted out of a viewing party by Secret Service. Trump and UFC chief Dana White walked together from the Oval Office to the White House balcony overlooking the arena, nicknamed 'The Claw,' on the South Lawn. The national anthem played as fighter jets flew overhead, prompting cheers and chants of 'USA, USA.'
Notable Attendees
Among the 4,000 guests were British heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury, wearing a 'Donald Trump for Prime Minister' baseball hat, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, FBI Director Kash Patel, acting US attorney general Todd Blanche, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. UK ambassador Sir Christian Turner posted on X: 'Celebrating US250 the American way.'
Cost and Legal Challenge
The administration said UFC would cover the £45 million cost, but official documents show seven agencies, including Homeland Security and the FAA, allocated resources. The event faced an unsuccessful legal challenge.
