Josh Hokit has reignited the rivalry with Gable Steveson by targeting the Olympic gold medalist’s recent comments about weight classes. In a candid interview, the UFC heavyweight contender responded to Steveson’s suggestion that Hokit should drop to 205 pounds, dismissing the idea with a crude reference to “stretch marks.” Hokit’s sharp tongue highlights the intense psychological warfare between the two top collegiate wrestlers now fighting in the UFC, where verbal sparring often precedes physical combat.
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Hokit’s confidence stems from his rapid ascent from the Contender Series to headlining Madison Square Garden in just 15 months. While Steveson suffered a first-round knockout in his last outing, leaving his future uncertain, Hokit remains focused on capturing the heavyweight title. The former NCAA Division I wrestler stated that he will grant a fight to anyone once he becomes champion, but he is skeptical about Steveson’s ability to recover from his recent defeat. This strategic patience allows Hokit to let his opponent’s struggles define the narrative rather than engaging in a premature clash.
The exchange underscores the high stakes of the heavyweight division, where elite wrestling backgrounds do not guarantee success in the octagon. Hokit’s willingness to engage in trash talk signals his readiness to defend a future title against any challenger, including Steveson. As both fighters navigate their respective paths to the top, the tension between them promises to be a defining storyline in the UFC’s heavyweight landscape, with Hokit positioning himself as the dominant force to watch.
Source: Yahoo Sports
