A rising heavyweight prospect made a statement ahead of his chance to earn a UFC contract later this year.
While the UFC’s heavyweight division may have stars like Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, several key figures, including Joe Rogan, have worried about the division’s depth.
It’s worth keeping an eye on the likes of Gable Steveson following his recent update but even then, heavyweight is in need of fresh and exciting contenders as soon as possible.
A potential candidate, who has already been confirmed for this year’s season of Dana White’s Contender Series, is the undefeated Josh Hokit.
The 27-year-old is a former NFL player and All-American wrestler who even competed against Bo Nickal before both men made the jump to MMA.
Josh Hokit produces a flawless performance at LFA 208 to set up his Dana White’s Contender Series appearance
At LFA 208 on May 9, Josh Hokit produced a flawless performance before cutting a promo on the mic that earned a divisive reaction from the fans.
‘The Incredible Hok’ made his pro debut in October of 2023, quickly amassing experience to move to 5-0 with four consecutive first-round finishes under his belt.
Hokit was previously signed to the San Francisco 49ers in the 2020 NFL draft, having represented Fresno State in college football whilst achieving success in wrestling.
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His first two pro fights came in Bellator, but he parted ways with the promotion to sign with the LFA after PFL offered him substantially less money in a new contract.
Hokit’s third outing in LFA came against Eric Lunsford where his status as a massive favorite was quickly justified after he immediately took his opponent down, secured a crucifix position, and rained down ground and pound for the finish.
Fans on social media were impressed by his performance as the 27-year-old set the tone ahead of his Dana White’s Contender Series fight in August.
“For those who aren’t watching LFA right now, Josh Hokit is the real deal. Hopefully we’ll get to see him in the UFC soon”
“Josh Hokit is one mean SOB. Absolute domination and just locks up his Contender Series spot later this year.”
Josh Hokit divided fans with his post-fight interview after earning his fifth pro win
For as impressive as his performance was, it was Josh Hokit’s post-fight interview that earned the biggest reaction online, splitting fans.
The American called out the heavyweight division and their political views, closing his statement out with a wild mic-drop comment about Michelle Obama.
“Listen, heavyweights, when you sign the contract to fight me, don’t even bother to train. You guys already lost. You guys are fat and slow and lazy.
“You guys probably support Kamala Harris and Joe Biden and Barack Obama. It is disgraceful. I’m here to bring justice to the heavyweight division and I’m gonna wipe you guys out one by one, mark my words.”
“Josh Hokit just delivered the post-fight promo of the year. That was GOLDEN!,” stated one fan on X with another echoing the same sentiment.
“Josh Hokit is my new favorite MMA fighter. Love the truth you spit after kicking a– on LFA. See you on the contender series!!!”
Others were less enthused by his WWE-style promo, as they drew comparisons between Hokit and some of the UFC’s most controversial figures.
“Colby Covington wants his gimmick back.”
“Another brain like Bryce Mitchell, he’ll just get knocked out faster in the UFC”