UFC fighter Bryce Mitchell isn’t backing down from his widely condemned claim that Adolf Hitler was a “good guy.” Days after UFC president Dana White publicly denounced Mitchell’s comments, the fighter has doubled down, refusing to retract or apologize.
During the first episode of his new podcast, Mitchell, 30, made a series of antisemitic, homophobic, and transphobic remarks, including outright Holocaust denial. He also claimed that Hitler was fighting “for Germany’s people” and that he’d be someone Mitchell “would go fishing with.” The comments quickly went viral, sparking backlash across social media.
On Thursday, Dana White condemned Mitchell’s remarks in a press conference, calling them “probably the worst” ignorant statements he’s ever heard.
“Hitler is one of the most disgusting and evil human beings to ever walk the face of the Earth, and anyone that even tries to take an opposing position is a moron,” White said.
Despite his strong words, White made it clear the UFC would not be punishing Mitchell, citing free speech. Instead, he suggested fans could look forward to seeing Mitchell get “his ass whooped on global television.”
Now, rather than walking back his comments, Mitchell is standing by them. In a new video posted Friday, he defended his remarks, claiming he had done his “own research” and dismissing criticism as “brainwashed people attacking free thinkers.”
Sponsors Cut Ties as Social Media Reaction Intensifies
Mitchell’s stance has cost him at least one sponsor already. The Regenaissance, a clothing brand, announced on Instagram that it had severed ties with the fighter, stating, “His comments do not reflect the intention, ideas, or beliefs of The Regenaissance in any manner.”
Meanwhile, the backlash on social media has only intensified. Reddit users mocked Mitchell’s insistence on “doing his own research,” with one top comment sarcastically summing it up:
“Mein career is over.”
Others pointed out the visible discomfort of Mitchell’s podcast co-host during the segment, with one user noting:
“That was the most damning thing—when your right-wing podcast co-host gives you the one brow, it’s joever, men.”
Despite White’s refusal to take disciplinary action, the controversy continues to overshadow Mitchell’s UFC career. His next fight has yet to be announced, but with this level of public scrutiny, he may be facing more than just an opponent in the cage.
