Ciryl Gane refuses to be misled by the persona of his upcoming opponent, Josh Hokit, as they prepare to face each other at UFC 334.
Heavyweight Title Clash at Madison Square Garden
Gane holds a professional record of 14 wins and 2 losses, with 11 of those victories coming inside the UFC. He is set to defend his heavyweight championship against the undefeated Hokit, who boasts a 10-0 record overall and a 4-0 mark in the promotion. The matchup serves as Saturday’s main event, broadcast on Paramount+, and takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Hokit has previously admitted that his flamboyant personality helped propel him into a title opportunity following victories over Curtis Blaydes and former title challenger Derrick Lewis. Even with Hokit’s theatrical approach, Gane maintains a high level of respect for his opponent’s actual abilities.
Speaking on “UFC Countdown,” Gane acknowledged Hokit’s recent success, stating, “Josh won the fight against Derrick Lewis; he did well. I’m not a big fan of his approach. I know this guy likes to talk, and other people like the people who talk. For Josh Hokit, he has an opportunity to be an undisputed champion. That’s because he knows how to do some entertainment. He is smart. He is really smart. He pretends he’s a clown, he’s stupid, but he’s not. He’s really not. I’m pretty sure we’re going to do a really great fight for the fans, and I’m going to win.”
Title Background and Odds
Bookmakers list Gane as a moderate favorite to successfully defend his championship and hand Hokit the first defeat of his professional career. The 36-year-old champion previously secured the interim heavyweight belt by finishing Alex Pereira, and was later elevated to undisputed champion after Tom Aspinall vacated the title due to persistent eye complications.
