SerpApi.Org
UFC CEO Dana White says UFC Freedom 250 was everything he hoped it would be—except for one controversial moment that he believes overshadowed an otherwise historic night.
After heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit knocked out Derrick Lewis in front of a crowd that included Donald Trump, he handed his chain to the president and thanked him on the microphone for “having the balls” to host the event. Hokit then sparked controversy by adding: “And lastly, Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?”
Now, one month later, speaking during a recent appearance on The Pivot Podcast, White reflected on the promotion’s landmark event at the White House, describing it as a “perfect event” from start to finish before condemning Hokit’s words.
While White did not hold back in celebrating the success of the event, he made it equally clear that he was disappointed by the post-fight controversy.
“What I don’t like, first of all, former First Lady of the United States… number two, a wife, a mother, it’s just gross, inappropriate, the timing of it, and everything,” White said.
He continued by distancing both himself and the UFC from the incident.
“Obviously not the opinion of the UFC, not my opinion or anybody else that fought on that card. It was a really unfortunate thing to happen that night,”White said.
Although White did not elaborate further on the podcast about the fighter’s intentions, he made it clear that the incident had no place during what he considered one of the organization’s biggest achievements.
“When you hit this…grand slam home run and have a perfect event in every way that it could be. You got a…moronic, it’s just, ugh. But, other than that, it was a great…night.”
White’s comments underscored just how proud he was of UFC Freedom 250, an event that drew enormous attention by taking place on the grounds of the White House. The card featured championship-caliber fights, celebrity appearances, political figures, and a massive global television audience, making it one of the most talked-about events in UFC history.
For White, the event represented years of growth for the organization. From its early days fighting for mainstream acceptance to hosting an event at one of the most recognizable locations in the United States, UFC Freedom 250 symbolized how far mixed martial arts has come.
Throughout the weekend, White repeatedly praised the fighters, production crew, and fans who helped make the event memorable. He described the atmosphere as electric and said the event exceeded expectations both inside the Octagon and from a production standpoint.
However, the controversial post-fight moment quickly generated headlines on social media and sports talk shows, shifting attention away from the fights themselves. White made it clear he regretted seeing that happen after what he believed had been a flawless showcase for the promotion.
His remarks also demonstrated the UFC’s desire to separate the actions of one individual from the rest of the athletes who competed on the card. White emphasized that the overwhelming majority of fighters represented the organization professionally throughout the historic event.
The UFC has experienced its share of controversial moments over the years, but White’s reaction suggested this incident was especially frustrating because of the setting and significance of the occasion. Hosting an event at the White House carried additional visibility and scrutiny, making professionalism even more important.
Despite the controversy, White remains convinced that UFC Freedom 250 will ultimately be remembered as a milestone for the sport. The event delivered high-level competition, record-breaking attention, and another landmark chapter in the UFC’s continued rise on the global stage.
Still, White made one thing abundantly clear: in his eyes, one “moronic” decision prevented what otherwise would have been a truly perfect night for the UFC.
