Former UFC star and podcast host Brendan Schaub has found himself in hot water after social media users pointed out similarities between symbols on his new merchandise and N*zi iconography from World War II.
The controversy began when Schaub posted images of his new “ANTI-ELECTRIC VEHICLE CLUB” merchandise on social media. The design features a skull with lightning bolts and an eagle symbol that several commenters quickly identified as bearing a striking resemblance to N*zi SS symbols and the reichsadler (imperial eagle) used extensively in N*zi Germany.
When confronted by users about the similarities, Schaub defended the design through direct replies. To one user who mentioned their family being murdered during the H*locaust, Schaub responded: “ya that’s terrible and I’m sorry that happened to your fam but n*zi’s don’t own or represent an eagle my man. You’re gonna be exhausted fighting that battle.”
In another exchange when questioned specifically about the eagle and shield design resembling N*zi imagery, Schaub simply replied: “nah man. N*zis don’t own the eagle logo 🇺🇸”
The merchandise, which appears to be a collaboration with a company called KIBBETECH, has drawn significant criticism online. Critics argue that the combination of specific symbols—particularly the eagle with outstretched wings positioned above other emblems, alongside the lightning bolt SS-style imagery—creates an unmistakable visual reference to N*zi symbolism.
One commenter pointed out that while individual elements might have other meanings, the combination and specific styling of these symbols together creates an undeniable connection to Third Reich imagery.
The controversy continues to unfold across social media platforms, with some defenders suggesting the design is simply “dope” merchandise being misinterpreted, while critics maintain that the imagery is too specific to be coincidental.
Schaub, who regularly hosts podcasts and comedy shows, has previously courted controversy with provocative statements but has maintained his position that the eagle design is simply patriotic American imagery rather than an homage to fascist symbolism. Schaub has also previously gotten into hot water for seemingly copying the Cartoon network logo when he tried to launch his failed MMA media news branch.
Schaub has shown no indication that he plans to recall or redesign the items despite the growing criticism.
