Despite his cringe-worthy persona and brash nature, Josh Hokit appears to be doing everything the right way ahead of his heavyweight title fight against Ciryl Gane atop UFC 334’s card on Nov. 14 from inside Madison Square Garden in New York City.
While some may argue that Hokit didn’t deserve a shot at UFC gold coming off key wins over Curtis Blaydes and Derrick Lewis, UFC matchmakers thought otherwise. Hokit has become one of those fighters that you want to see compete whether it’s to watch him win or
watch him lose. That sort of intrigue is probably why UFC officials strapped the rocket to Hokit’s back and sent him into a matchup with Gane on one of the biggest cards of the year.
Fortunately, Hokit seems like he’s taking this opportunity very seriously. His interviews might be silly and his characters completely ridiculous, but the 28-year-old former NFL fullback always shows up when the Octagon door shuts. Hokit looks to be on that same path again ahead of his UFC 334 title fight and just released some pad work footage that has surprised many fights fans.
Check it out below:
In addition to Hokit himself, UFC fans flocked to social media to react to the heavyweight contender’s recent training session. Considering Hokit is known for his wrestling and hasn’t shown the most disciplined striking approach through four UFC fights, some fans were impressed by his pad work. Others think it’s all for nothing against a monster like Gane.
Check out some of the reaction below and let us know your final thoughts!
“Hokit looks dangerous, Gane better be ready.”
“He clearly doesn’t know what he’s doing. Both eyes wide open for gouges, and groin shot wide open for the taking. He’s done for.”
“He’s gonna knock Gane the f—k out.”
“Hokit is gonna rid us of that cheater.”
“His technique looks really good in this.”
“Please MMA gods. Let this man end Gane. PLEASE.”
“Gane inside 2 rounds. He’s too big for Josh.”
“He’s up against a technical monster but i’m rooting for him still even though I know Gane won’t stand there and take a combo, he’s always moving….”
“None of those punches would be able to reach Gane. Hokit is too short. No idea how someone would bet on him.”
“Looking sharp, but can he keep it up for 25 minutes with an 8.5 inch reach deficit? I don’t think he will, but interesting to see.”
“Gane will make this look easy.”
“Can’t see how he beats Gane without grappling. Gane moves well ain’t no way he’s standing there and trading shots.”
