Heavyweight prospect Josh Hokit has declared he will not hesitate to match Ciryl Gane's tactics if their UFC 334 bout turns dirty, telling reporters "I owe it to the fans" to meet fire with fire. The comments come ahead of their highly anticipated matchup at the November event.
Hokit, known for his wrestling-heavy approach and relentless pressure, faces a significant step up in competition against Gane, the former interim UFC heavyweight champion renowned for his technical striking and movement. The Frenchman's recent performances have showcased an ability to control distance and pace, though he has also drawn criticism for perceived gamesmanship inside the Octagon.
"If he wants to make it ugly, I'll make it uglier," Hokit stated during a media availability this week. "I'm not here to play games. I'm here to fight, and if that means matching whatever he brings, then that's what I'll do. The fans deserve a real fight."
The bout represents a critical juncture for both men. Gane seeks to re-establish himself in the title picture after setbacks, while Hokit aims to announce himself as a legitimate contender with a statement victory over a former interim champion.
