Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized President Trump for his silence following a UFC fighter's disparaging remarks about Michelle Obama, calling the comments "disgusting" and "inexcusable." Smith noted that Trump smiled when the comment was made during a White House event.
The incident highlights ongoing scrutiny of public figures' responses to controversial remarks, particularly concerning race and gender, and raises questions about political endorsements and silence in the face of offensive statements.
Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith has criticized President Trump for his silence regarding disparaging remarks made by UFC fighter Josh Hokit about former first lady Michelle Obama. Smith, speaking on his SiriusXM show "Straight Shooter with Stephen A.," called Hokit's comments "disgusting" and "inexcusable."
Hokit made the remarks during an interview with podcaster Joe Rogan following his win at the UFC Freedom 250 event, which took place on the South Lawn of the White House. Hokit grinned and stated, "Michelle Obama is a man! Am I right, America?" referencing a conspiracy theory popular on the political right.
Smith noted that Trump "smiled" when the comment was made, a reaction he found problematic. "He doesn’t do that enough, and that’s the problem," Smith said, referring to Trump's lack of denouncement. UFC President and CEO Dana White did denounce the fighter's comments.
Other figures, including former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, also criticized Hokit. Griffin III posted on social media, "It takes a really small man to use his biggest moment to attack a woman by calling her a man. Especially with the history behind calling black women men."