Mitchell, a devout Christian who describes himself as a former atheist, explained his position on evolution by comparing the relationship between wolves and domestic dogs to the purported evolutionary link between chimpanzees and humans.
“I believe there’s definitely some [evolution],” Mitchell stated. “I mean, it’s factual, but what I do not believe—what I know is true—is something with 23 chromosomes can’t make something with 24.”
To illustrate his point, Mitchell referenced how domestic dogs evolved from wolves:
“For example, I’ll sit here and prove evolution. You know that poodles come from wolves? Every dog, right? Frenchies come from wolves. Here’s the thing. That Frenchie and that wolf, same number of chromosomes.”
He contrasted this with human chromosomal differences from primates, arguing that this genetic distinction proves humans couldn’t have evolved from chimpanzees. When challenged about chromosomal variations like those in Down syndrome, Mitchell acknowledged these variations but maintained they represented minor mutations rather than evidence for cross-species evolution.
“Half a chromosome. Yeah, it’s half a chromosomes off,” Mitchell said regarding Down syndrome. “I think it’s mutated. I think that we have 23 or 24 and one of theirs, half of one of theirs is mutated.”
Mitchell anchored his beliefs in biblical creationism, affirming his conviction that humans were created by God as described in Genesis rather than evolving from primates.
“I know what happened in the beginning and I know what happens in the end.”
The comments came during a broader discussion that touched on numerous topics including his Christian faith, flat earth beliefs, and various alternative theories. Mitchell, who competed in the UFC’s featherweight division, has become known for his outspoken views on religion and science outside the octagon.
While many scientists would disagree with Mitchell‘s interpretation of chromosomal evidence, his perspective represents a viewpoint shared by many young-earth creationists who see the biblical account of human origins as literal and incompatible with evolutionary theory.
