An emerging heavyweight contender is making waves as he prepares for a shot at a UFC contract later this year.
The UFC`s heavyweight division boasts prominent names like Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, yet concerns about its overall depth have been voiced by several key figures, including commentator Joe Rogan.
While prospects like Gable Steveson are worth monitoring after his recent news, the heavyweight class urgently needs new, exciting talent.
One potential candidate who has already secured a spot on this year`s Dana White`s Contender Series is the undefeated Josh Hokit.
The 27-year-old is a former NFL athlete and acclaimed All-American wrestler, who even faced Bo Nickal before their respective transitions to mixed martial arts.
Josh Hokit`s Dominant Showing at LFA 208 Paves Way for Contender Series
At LFA 208 on May 9th, Josh Hokit delivered a perfect performance, followed by a post-fight speech at the microphone that triggered varied reactions among fans.
Known as ‘The Incredible Hok,’ he turned pro in October 2023 and rapidly built a 5-0 record, including four consecutive first-round victories.
Hokit was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2020, having played college football at Fresno State while simultaneously excelling in wrestling.
His initial two professional bouts were under the Bellator banner, but he later joined LFA after reportedly receiving a significantly lower contract offer from PFL.
Hokit`s third fight in LFA, against Eric Lunsford, saw him quickly live up to his status as a heavy favorite by immediately securing a takedown, establishing a crucifix, and finishing with ground and pound.
His dominant performance garnered praise on social media, with many seeing it as a strong preview for his upcoming Contender Series bout in August.
Social media users reacted positively to his fighting, with comments such as:
“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.”
Post-Fight Interview Sparks Debate After Hokit`s Fifth Professional Victory
However, it was Hokit`s post-fight interview, following his fifth professional win, that generated the most buzz online, polarizing viewers.
During the interview, Hokit took aim at the heavyweight division`s perceived political affiliations, concluding his statement with a controversial remark.
Hokit`s outspoken address included:
“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.”
This prompted enthusiastic responses from some, with one fan on X declaring:
“Josh Hokit just delivered the post-fight promo of the year. That was GOLDEN!”
and another adding:
“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, not all reactions were positive, with some criticizing the “WWE-style” nature of his promo and drawing parallels to other controversial figures in the UFC.
Criticisms included remarks like:
“Colby Covington wants his gimmick back.”
“Another brain like Bryce Mitchell, he’ll just get knocked out faster in the UFC”
