Josh Hokit defends controversial statement about Michelle Obama

Hokit reaffirmed a post-fight remark about former first lady Michelle Obama, framing it as an exercise of free speech. The undefeated fighter, now 10-0, had knocked out Derrick Lewis earlier this month at the UFC White House. In a subsequent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, he said he intended the description as a compliment. The comment drew backlash for targeting Mrs. Obama, and Hokit said he will not backtrack. He added that his wording referred to work ethic and facing adversity, not to identity. He also described the interview as an opportunity to highlight freedom of speech in the United States.