Photo via Yahoo Sports

Dana White admits to giving Josh Hokit ‘tough guys’ because he ‘didn’t like some of the things he said’

UFC chief Dana White has acknowledged that he deliberately assigned Josh Hokit difficult opponents because he was displeased with the heavyweight's controversial post-fight remarks. Despite this friction, the undefeated fighter has secured a main-event title challenge against Ciryl Gane at UFC 334, scheduled for November 14, 2026, at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Hokit earned this opportunity by winning his first four UFC bouts, including decisive victories over Curtis Blaydes and Derrick Lewis. White admitted on The Jim Rome Show that he initially disliked Hokit's theatrical interviews, which included offensive language and derogatory comments about public figures such as Brittney Griner and Michelle Obama.

Nevertheless, the promotion's leader conceded that Hokit has proven his worth by passing every test thrown at him, stating that the fighter has fought his way to the top and deserves the chance to compete for the undisputed heavyweight belt.

Up nextMMA· 25m ago

Johnny Walker wanted slow heavyweight rise, but 'God's plan' is different