UFC featherweight Bryce Mitchell is at the center of controversy after making shocking remarks praising Adolf Hitler on his ArkanSanity podcast, which aired on January 30, 2025. Throughout the episode, Mitchell, alongside his co-host Roli Delgado, expressed deeply troubling views about the former Nazi leader, labeling him as "a good guy."
Mitchll stated, "I honestly think Hitler was a good guy based upon my own research, not my public education indoctrination." He briefly discussed how he believes Hitler fought for his country and purportedly wanted to create a pure nation by expelling Jews, claiming they were responsible for societal ills. “He wanted to purify [Germany] by kicking the greedy Jews out who were destroying his country and turning them all to gays.” While attempting to frame these remarks within the idea of personal research, his comments instead drew widespread condemnation.
Social media erupted following the release of the podcast, with fans and prominent figures within the MMA community expressing their outrage. Ariel Helwani, well-known broadcaster, remarked, “Each and every day MMA finds a way to reach a new low. A new way of embarrassing itself and those who are fans of it.” Fellow journalist Jason Hagholm echoed similar sentiments, stating, “It’s getting harder and harder to tell people you cover MMA.” Some fans on online platforms shared similar views, calling for Mitchell's removal from the sport.
This isn’t the first time Mitchell has attracted controversy. He previously gained attention for espousing flat Earth theories and rejecting various aspects of mainstream education, including public health measures like vaccinations. His stance against vaccines came to light when he voiced intentions to homeschool his children to keep them away from what he perceives as indoctrinating education. Last year, he said, “We’re going to have to home-school all our kids or they’re all going to end up turning gay.”
Mitchell's remarks about Hitler stood out starkly against the backdrop of historical atrocities committed during the Nazi regime, which was responsible for the genocide of approximately six million Jews, among other brutal acts against millions of others. Critics pointed out the danger of relativizing such history, especially as misinformation continues to proliferate across social media.
Despite the backlash, UFC has remained silent on the matter, which many believe is indicative of the promotion's approach to its fighters’ controversies. Observers of the sport suggest there may be little to no repercussions for Mitchell’s hate speech, noting how similar incidents have been brushed aside by both the UFC and its fanbase historically.
It’s important to note Mitchell's rating within the sport; he is currently ranked 13th among featherweights and recently scored notable victories, including a knockout of Kron Gracie at UFC 310, which improved his record to 19 wins and two defeats.
His controversial comments have opened discussions on the intersection of sports, hate speech, and societal values. While some pro-fighting followers dismiss his views as eccentric, many wonder about the broader impact such statements can have, especially among young and impressionable fans drawn to the sport.
With his public persona now overshadowed by these remarks, it remains unclear how Bryce Mitchell will navigate the fallout. Will his popularity suffer due to this backlash, or will he remain undeterred, continuing to voice his unfiltered opinions? The reactions he faces over the coming days and weeks may shape not only his career but also the conversation around acceptance and accountability within MMA culture.