Despite his swagger-worthy persona and brash nature, Josh Hokit appears to be doing everything right ahead of his heavyweight title fight against Ciryl Gane. UFC 334 card November 14 from Madison Square Garden in New York.
While some might argue that Hokkit didn’t deserve UFC gold after his key wins over Curtis Blaydes and Derrick Lewis, UFC matchmakers thought otherwise. Hokit has become one of those fighters you want to see compete, whether it’s to watch him win or lose. That kind of intrigue is probably why UFC officials strapped a rocket to Hokit’s back and sent him to a matchup with Gane on one of the biggest cards of the year.
Fortunately, Hokit seems to be taking this opportunity very seriously. His interviews can be silly and his characters downright ridiculous, but the 28-year-old former NFL quarterback always shows up when the Octagon door closes. Hokit seems to be back on track ahead of his UFC 334 title fight and has just released some footage that has surprised many fight fans.
Check it out below:
In addition to that Hockey itselfUFC fans flocked to social media to react to the heavyweight contender’s recent workout. Given that Hokit is known for his wrestling and hasn’t shown the most disciplined striking approach in his four UFC fights, some fans were impressed with his pad work. Others think it’s all for naught against a monster like Gane.
Check out some of the reactions below and let us know your final thoughts!
“Hokit looks dangerous, Gane better be ready.”
“He obviously doesn’t know what he’s doing. Both eyes wide open to see the jabs and wide open to take a punch in the groin. He’s ready.”
“He’s knocking Gane out.”
“Hokit will rid us of this impostor.”
“His technique looks really good in it.”
“Please MMA Gods. Let this guy finish Gane. PLEASE.”
“Gane 2 in the ring. He’s too big for Josh.”
“He’s up against a technical monster, but I’m still rooting for him, even though I know Gane won’t stand there and take a combo, he’s moving all the time…”
“None of those shots would get to Gane. Hockey is too short. No idea how anyone would bet on him.”
“Looks sharp, but can he keep it up for 25 minutes with an 8.5″ reach deficit? I don’t think he will, but it will be interesting to see.”
“Gane makes this look look easy.”
“I don’t see him beating Gane without grappling. Gane moves well, he’s not going to stand and trade punches.”