UFC Fighter Bryce Mitchell's Pro-Hitler Remarks Spark Outrage and Condemnation from Dana White
UFC president Dana White has expressed his disgust following comments made by fighter Bryce Mitchell, who controversially praised Adolf Hitler as 'a good guy' during the debut episode of his podcast, "ArkanSanity." The 30-year-old Mitchell, ranked 13th in the featherweight division, was met with immediate backlash after making several antisemitic, homophobic, and transphobic remarks.
During the podcast episode, Mitchell stated, "I honestly think Hitler was a good guy based on my own research, not my public education and indoctrination." He defended Hitler's actions, asserting the dictator wanted to 'purify' Germany and minimize the influence of Jews, claiming, "He was fighting for his people. He wanted to purify it by kicking the greedy Jews out." He also shockingly proclaimed, "The Holocaust ain't real." These statements have ignited widespread controversy.
Dana White, addressing the matter during a Power Slap press conference, said, "I've heard dumb, ignorant s*** in my day, but this one’s probably the worst." He emphasized the historical impact of World War II and the atrocities committed under Hitler's regime, stating, "When you talk about Hitler, he was responsible for the death of six million Jews, and he tried to eliminate a race of people. World War II was the deadliest war in history - 15 million military deaths, 45 million civilians, and 25 million soldiers killed." White labeled Hitler as "one of the most disgusting and evil human beings to ever walk the face of the Earth," and criticized the platform social media provides for ignorant comments.
Although White highlighted the UFC's disdain for Mitchell's remarks, he indicated there would be no disciplinary action against the fighter, framing the situation as one involving free speech. "For all of you who hate Bryce Mitchell, you get to see him hopefully get his ass whooped on global television," suggested White. Mitchell has fought under the UFC banner since 2018 and his statements have brought renewed scrutiny to the sport.
Mitchell's comments have not only drawn criticism from White but have also provoked outrage from various public figures and organizations. Canadian-American journalist Ariel Helwani lamented on social media, asserting, "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." He expressed disappointment at the ignorance reflected within the sport.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) also issued strong statements condemning Mitchell's hateful rhetoric. ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt remarked, "I’m aghast at this podcast interview. There are simply no words. Mitchell manages to express antisemitic, homophobic, and transphobic sentiments." The organization has called for immediate action from the UFC to publicly denounce these toxic ideas.
Mitchell, with a professional record of 17-2 and his last fight ending in victory over Kron Gracie via TKO, now faces significant backlash from fans and organizations alike. He has yet to issue a meaningful apology, except for expressing regret for putting the UFC in a compromising position.
Despite the burgeoning controversy, White remains steadfast on the confines of free speech, stating, "That’s what everybody wants to hear about, punishment. It’s free speech. I don’t have to love it, you don’t have to love it…" This viewpoint has not eased concerns over the growing presence of such rhetoric within mixed martial arts.
The fallout from Mitchell’s statements could have lasting effects on his career and potentially on the UFC’s reputation. MMA fans and advocates expect the organization to take action against any form of hate speech, especially from its athletes.
Mitchell's troubling comments are now making waves not only within the sports community but across multiple public domains, highlighting broader issues of hate speech, education, and the responsibility of public figures.
The situation has raised the bar for expectations around athletes' conduct and the platforms they utilize to share their opinions. Ensure scrutiny remains on public figures, like Mitchell, to reconsider the impact of their statements.
Overall, the UFC and its management are faced with the challenge of balancing free expression against the responsibility of advocacy against hate and ignorance. The mixed martial arts community reflects the complex, often challenging dynamics of modern society, where the boundaries of free speech are continually tested.