An undefeated heavyweight contender recently made a significant statement as he prepares for an opportunity to secure a UFC contract later this year.
While the UFC`s heavyweight division boasts prominent names like Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, concerns have been raised by figures such as Joe Rogan regarding the overall depth of talent in the weight class.
Although prospects like Gable Steveson are worth monitoring following recent updates, the heavyweight landscape clearly needs an influx of fresh and exciting competitors soon.
One potential candidate confirmed for this year`s season of Dana White`s Contender Series is the unbeaten Josh Hokit.
The 27-year-old holds a background as a former NFL player and an All-American wrestler. He even competed against Bo Nickal before both transitioned to mixed martial arts.
Josh Hokit`s Dominant LFA Performance Secures Dana White`s Contender Series Spot
Competing at LFA 208 on May 9, Josh Hokit delivered a flawless performance, followed by a post-fight interview that garnered a mixed reaction from fans.
Known as ‘The Incredible Hok’, he made his professional debut in October 2023 and quickly built his record to 5-0 with four consecutive first-round finishes.
Hokit was previously signed by the San Francisco 49ers after the 2020 NFL draft, having excelled in college football for Fresno State while also achieving success in wrestling.
His initial two professional fights were under the Bellator banner, but he later joined LFA after receiving a significantly lower contract offer from PFL.
Hokit`s third appearance in LFA saw him face Eric Lunsford. His status as a heavy favorite was immediately validated as he secured a takedown, established a crucifix position, and finished the fight with ground and pound.
His dominant performance ahead of his August appearance on Dana White`s Contender Series impressed fans online.
Comments on social media included praise like: “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” and “Josh Hokit is one mean SOB. Absolute domination and just locks up his Contender Series spot later this year.”
Josh Hokit`s Post-Fight Interview Divides Fans
While his performance was highly impressive, it was Josh Hokit’s post-fight interview that generated the most buzz online, polarizing opinions.
During the interview, Hokit directly addressed the heavyweight division, criticizing their physical condition and linking it to their political views. He concluded with a memorable line referencing Michelle Obama.
He stated:
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.
Some fans on social media platform X were highly entertained, with one calling it “the post-fight promo of the year… That was GOLDEN!” Another added, “Josh Hokit is my new favorite MMA fighter. Love the truth you spit after kicking a– on LFA. See you on the contender series!!!”
However, others were less enthusiastic about the professional wrestling-style promo, drawing comparisons between Hokit and some of the UFC’s more controversial figures.
Criticisms included remarks such as: “Colby Covington wants his gimmick back.” and “Another brain like Bryce Mitchell, he’ll just get knocked out faster in the UFC”
