David’s answer was brief but unmistakable.
“It was a travesty. What else can you say about it? It was embarrassing. I was embarrassed to be an American.”
The longtime comedian offered no additional explanation for his criticism.
His comments quickly spread across social media, where many questioned why a sporting event attended by thousands of Americans would provoke such a reaction.
Kelly addressed the controversy during her radio show and suggested David’s remarks revealed a broader disconnect between Hollywood elites and ordinary Americans.
“There’s no question Larry lives in either Beverly Hills or Bel Air and is living it up big,” Kelly said. “And he looked at these guys and had absolutely nothing that he could relate to on this more of a working-class American sport – turned his nose up at it and walked away.”
Kelly argued that UFC has become one of the country’s most popular sports precisely because it resonates with millions of Americans outside the entertainment industry’s bubble.
She also criticized what she described as a pattern of celebrities inserting themselves into political debates while showing contempt for people whose lifestyles differ from their own.
The criticism came as many supporters of the event pointed to what unfolded at the White House as a uniquely American celebration.
The UFC Freedom 250 card was staged as part of events honoring America’s 250th birthday, drawing thousands of spectators to the South Lawn.
The evening featured a dramatic championship fight in which American fighter Justin Gaethje defeated previously unbeaten Ilia Topuria to capture the UFC lightweight title.
The crowd erupted as Gaethje celebrated his victory before greeting President Trump cageside.
Military flyovers from both the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds added to the spectacle, while attendees joined together in patriotic displays throughout the evening.
After his victory, Gaethje reflected on the significance of the moment.
“I’m from America. Two hundred and fifty years ago we were way bigger underdogs and look at us thriving now.”
For supporters of the event, that statement represented the spirit of the evening—a celebration of competition, perseverance, and national pride.
The criticism of David’s comments wasn’t limited to conservatives.
Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania was approached by reporters and asked about the comedian’s remarks.
His response was immediate.
“I’d say lighten up, Francis,” he said.
The senator was referencing the classic Bill Murray comedy Stripes, though many younger viewers missed the joke.
Fetterman then made his position crystal clear.
“I’m proud to be American, and if you are embarrassed or whatever because of a UFC thing, get over yourself, dude,” he wrote.
As he entered an elevator, the senator delivered one final parting shot.
“Like seriously, get over yourself, dude.”
The exchange drew widespread attention because it represented a rare moment when a prominent Democrat publicly sided against a major Hollywood figure on a culture-war issue.
For many observers, the debate extends beyond one comedian’s opinion.
Critics argue that entertainment industry elites have spent years dismissing popular American traditions and activities that appeal to working-class audiences. Whether it is NASCAR, country music, hunting, or mixed martial arts, many Americans believe these cultural touchstones are routinely mocked by people who claim to speak on behalf of the nation.
That perception has only intensified as UFC has grown into a global phenomenon attracting fans from every political background and economic class.
To supporters, the White House event was not something to be ashamed of. It was a celebration of American achievement, athletic excellence, and national pride during a milestone birthday for the country.
Larry David saw something entirely different.
Megyn Kelly made her disagreement clear.
But it may have been John Fetterman’s blunt response that resonated most with Americans across the political spectrum.
After all the outrage, the senator’s message was simple:
“Get over yourself, dude.”
