With the optically-challenged Tom Aspinall sidelined for the foreseeable future, top 265-pound titans Josh Hokit and Ciryl Gane will battle for the undisputed heavyweight title atop the upcoming UFC 334 fight card, set for Sat., Nov. 14, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Don’t be surprised to see Hokit prevail, despite his role as betting underdog.
After all, Hokit might be the best UFC heavyweight since Cain Velasquez. That’s according to Gane’s coach, Fernand Lopez, who continues to marvel
at Hokit’s ability to seamlessly transition between striking and wrestling, which led “The Incredible Hok” to a perfect 10-0 record.
“He’s not just another heavyweight coming forward to punch people, he’s got something,” Lopez told MMA Junkie. “I think that besides Cain Velasquez, it’s been a long time since we had this kind of wrestler that can push you, make you guess, go for wrestling, if that’s not working, go back to striking, he’s not just relying on wrestling. He can put you out on the feet or he can put you out by submitting you. Of course he’s going to wrestle, but he’s not going to wrestle right away. It’s well deserved for him and I think that he is a huge challenge for Ciryl.”
The 44-year-old Velasquez (14-3) is considered one of the best heavyweights in the history of UFC and held the 265-pound title for several years. While Hokit, 28, has been impressive (and unbearably cringe) thus far in his combat sports career, he’s yet to face anyone currently ranked in the division Top 5.
For the rest of the UFC 334 fight card and Paramount+ lineup click here.
