"Serves him right": Martina Navratilova reacts after UFC fighter reportedly sidelined over Michelle Obama comments
Tennis News
Martina Navratilova has reacted to a growing controversy involving UFC fighter Josh Hokit after comments he made about former US First Lady Michelle Obama during a post-fight interview. The incident took place at the UFC Freedom 250 event, staged on the White House South Lawn during a high-profile national celebration.
Hokit made the remarks after a TKO victory, questioning Obama’s gender in statements that quickly spread across social media. The comments triggered immediate backlash from fans, media commentators, and figures across sport, with criticism focused on both the content and the setting in which they were delivered.
The UFC has also come under scrutiny following the incident, with reports indicating possible disciplinary action against the fighter in response to the backlash. UFC leadership, including CEO Dana White, is reported to have condemned the remarks, reinforcing internal disapproval of the episode.
Among those responding publicly was former world No. 1 Martina Navratilova, who addressed the situation directly and expressed approval of the consequences facing Hokit. Separately, Alexis Ohanian, husband of Serena Williams, also issued strong criticism of the comments, describing them as inappropriate and joining wider condemnation from sports and business figures.
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Backlash after UFC fighter’s remarks at White House event
Hokit’s comments were made during his post-fight speech after a TKO win at UFC Freedom 250. The event, staged at the White House South Lawn, formed part of a broader national celebration and attracted significant public attention.
During his remarks, Hokit made a direct and derogatory claim about Michelle Obama, which quickly spread across social platforms and triggered widespread criticism from fans and media figures. "Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?"
The statement was widely condemned online, with several reports indicating that the UFC moved swiftly to distance itself from the comments. According to circulating reports, the promotion is no longer expected to feature the fighter following the incident. UFC CEO Dana White has also been reported to have criticised the remarks.
Josh Hokit just called Michelle Obama “a man” on the mic after winning at UFC Freedom 250.
— Overton (@overton_news) June 15, 2026
HOKIT: “Hey, shout out to Trump for having the balls to put some sh*t like this on!”
“And if I’m going to say anything, there’s only person more incredible than the Incredible Hulk and… pic.twitter.com/ydNPIEEHww
Navratilova and Ohanian respond to UFC controversy
One post widely shared online referenced the situation in stark terms. "BREAKING: under fire after Michelle Obama statement. UFC won't let him fight anymore. He ruined his own career."
Martina Navratilova responded to the growing controversy in brief but direct terms, aligning with criticism of the fighter’s remarks. Her reaction came as public debate intensified around accountability for athletes’ conduct outside competitive performance. "Serves him right," the 18-time Grand Slam champion wrote.
Serves him right
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) June 18, 2026
Separately, Alexis Ohanian, husband of Serena Williams and a tech entrepreneur, also addressed the situation. He described the remarks as unacceptable and noted he was present at the event by invitation from UFC-affiliated leadership.
"Lot of people asking me to comment: Yes, that fighter's slur about former First Lady Michelle Obama was vile and inappropriate," Ohanian wrote. "I attended the UFC event via invitation from TKO/IMG leadership (I own 5 pro sports teams + a league). I was already on my way home when those comments were made and was glad to see Dana condemn them."
Lot of people asking me to comment: Yes, that fighter's slur about former First Lady Michelle Obama was vile and inappropriate.
— Alexis Ohanian 🗽 (@alexisohanian) June 18, 2026
I attended the UFC event via invitation from TKO/IMG leadership (I own 5 pro sports teams + a league). I was already on my way home when those comments…
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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