Rosie O'Donnell is taking aim at the UFC and its fanbase, calling them 'un-American' in a blistering rant following the UFC Freedom 250 event in Washington, D.C. The comedian and longtime political activist didn't hold back, accusing supporters of the promotion of embracing racist and homophobic views tied to President Trump.
O'Donnell, a vocal critic of Trump for years, skipped the special fight night held on the White House lawn over the weekend. The event celebrated America's 250th birthday and Trump's 80th birthday, a combination that clearly didn't sit well with her.
In an interview with TMZ Sports on Monday in New York City, O'Donnell blasted the rhetoric she associates with UFC fans. She specifically called out fighter Josh Hokit, who went viral for making offensive comments about Michelle Obama during the broadcast. O'Donnell linked Hokit's remarks to what she described as a broader pattern among Trump voters, labeling them 'racist, homophobic, and deeply un-American.'
O'Donnell made it clear she won't be attending any future UFC events. Given her strong words, it's likely she wouldn't be welcomed back anyway. The controversy highlights the growing divide between the sport's fanbase and its critics, with many pointing to the promotion's close ties to Trump and Dana White.
This isn't the first time a celebrity has clashed with the UFC's political leanings. Danica Patrick's recent social media jab at opponents shows how sports figures are increasingly wading into political waters.
Meanwhile, the UFC continues to thrive despite the backlash, with events drawing huge crowds and TV ratings. The Freedom 250 event was no exception, but O'Donnell's comments have reignited debates about patriotism and sports fandom.
For O'Donnell, the line is clear: supporting the UFC now means aligning with a culture she finds toxic. Whether other fans feel the same way remains to be seen, but her words have certainly struck a nerve in the combat sports world.
