Podcaster Joe Rogan has weighed in on mixed martial artist Josh Hokit's remark about former First Lady Michelle Obama, made during a UFC event at the White House last month. Rogan stated that while he does not agree with Hokit's comment, he understands the tactic and deems it "smart."
Hokit shouted, "Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?" during a post-fight press conference on June 14. The remark stunned the audience at the White House event.
During a recent episode of his podcast, Rogan discussed the incident with comedian Ali Siddiq. Siddiq questioned the remark's utility, noting its divisive nature and that Michelle Obama is not a man. Rogan acknowledged that some people hold unconventional beliefs, including that the world is flat, and suggested that "there's probably people who do believe Michelle Obama is a man."
Rogan explained Hokit's actions as part of a persona, comparing him to a professional wrestler. "He’s [Hokit] like a pro wrestler, like he’s got a character called ‘The Incredible Hoke,’ it’s very corny in a lot of ways, sometimes it’s, you know, cringey, but the point is he gets a lot of attention," Rogan said. He further elaborated that Hokit's comment was "by design" to maximize attention during a brief career window, inspired by the wrestling persona of Hulk Hogan.
Rogan emphasized that he believes Hokit's remark was part of his "act" and not reflective of his true feelings, describing Hokit as "very reasonable" in real life. "It is very divisive, don’t get me wrong, but that’s by design," Rogan stated. "You got to get attention. I don’t agree with it, I wouldn’t do it, it’s not my thing, I don’t like it, right? But I get it and it’s smart."
Neither Michelle Obama nor former President Barack Obama have publicly responded to Hokit's statement. However, Hokit has since doubled down on his comment, stating in an appearance on "The Ariel Helwani Show" that he thought he was giving her a compliment.