As The Guardian reports, a misogynistic attack on former first lady Michelle Obama overshadowed the UFC fights in the White House garden. Under a giant steel structure called the “Claw,” Donald Trump celebrated his 80th birthday and the upcoming 250th anniversary of U.S. independence with the first professional sports event in White House history.
Heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit delivered a rambling victory speech after his fight, ranging from praise for the president to religion to the false conspiracy claim: “Michelle Obama is a man.” The remark, one of the oldest and most persistent slanders against the former first lady, drew cheers from some in the audience and disbelief from others.
Several victorious fighters greeted Trump after their bouts. American Bo Nickal climbed over the cage fence after his knockout win to shake Trump’s hand. Hokit’s comments were not the only political jab of the evening: during the fight between former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley and Aiemann Zahabi, nationalist sentiment erupted. Trump put on a white “USA” cap while chants of “U-S-A!” rang out from parts of the crowd. Several spectators shouted “Canada is the 51st state!” — a reference to Trump’s repeated jokes about annexing the northern neighbor.
Meanwhile, dozens of people gathered at the entrance gates to Ellipse Park south of the White House with protest signs and chants. Senator Lindsey Graham welcomed news of a deal with Iran but expressed skepticism. The deal reportedly includes opening the Strait of Hormuz.
EuroPulse reported on June 15, 2026, on Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire with Iran — many questions remained open (to the article).
Source: www.theguardian.com
