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Josh Hokit a ‘nice guy’, but ‘easiest title shot’ claims Alexander Volkov

Josh Hokit, a former NFL practice squad member with a flair for controversy and a knockout-heavy record, has secured a UFC heavyweight title shot after just six Octagon appearances. The 28-year-old, known for his chaotic fighting style and polarizing antics—mixing elements of Chael Sonnen’s trash talk and Conor McGregor’s bravado without their charisma—faces Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 334 on November 24 at Madison Square Garden.

Hokit’s path to this opportunity was paved by his high-profile brawl against Curtis Blaydes, a fight so entertaining it earned him an invite to the White House, where he outlasted Donald Trump’s favored fighter. Despite his unorthodox approach, his recent success has propelled him into a title opportunity, though his next challenge may come against the heavily favored Gane, who holds a -270 betting line.

Alexander Volkov, currently ranked second in the media heavyweight standings, weighed in on the matchup, calling Hokit the ‘easiest title shot’ he’s ever faced. Though Volkov praised Hokit as a ‘nice guy,’ he suggested Gane’s victory would be more likely, potentially clearing the path for his own title pursuit.

Volkov’s own path has been marked by controversy, including a disputed split-decision loss to Gane in 2024—a result so contentious that UFC President Dana White reportedly promised to ‘make it up’ to him. Since that fight, Volkov has defeated Jailton Almeida and Waldo Cortes-Acosta, though his recent wins have also faced scoring scrutiny.

With Gane and Hokit set to clash, Volkov’s next opportunity could hinge on the outcome of their bout.

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