UFC fighter under fire for 'racist' Native American promo video

June 2024 · 2 minute read

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A UFC fighter came under fire Tuesday for a promo video he posted on Twitter, which shows him throwing tomahawks and mimicking a stereotypical Native American war cry — while donning face paint and a giant headdress.

“I support the legendary Native American warriors and I am tirelessly hunting this @cowboycerrone for his crimes of defamation,” wrote welterweight Mike Perry in a tweet accompanying the video.

“I will catch him across state lines in Denver Colorado, November 10th,” he said, referencing his upcoming fight with Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone at UFC Fight Night 139.

Perry, 27, has been known for his wild antics outside the octagon, including comments he made about being “legally allowed” to use the “N-word” because he’s “two percent African.”

While some social media users weren’t even phased by his promo video — saying it should be expected by now — many were offended.

“Me when I see you on my timeline justifying Mike Perry’s Native American buffoonery video,” tweeted MMA writer and editor Michael Morgan, along with a GIF showing a man grimacing.

“This is the equivalent to black face Halloween costumes,” wrote another Twitter user.

“Mike Perry Is the Racist Gift That Keeps on Giving,” added Caged Insider.

The fighter responded to the backlash in a tweet on Tuesday afternoon, saying: “It’s Halloween. Not offensive. How does a video hurt your feelings ? It doesn’t. If I punch you in the face that would hurt you.”

Perry later added, “Glad to talk that s–t for your entertainment.”

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