Josh Hokit fires back after Sean Strickland surprisingly questions his UFC press antics

Strickland reacted on X after Hokit’s press conference appearance spread widely, admitting that even he felt the unbeaten heavyweight had gone too far.

“This is wild coming from me, but Josh goes way too far. Chandler’s wife, Ilia Topuria’s ex… I know it’s the WWE thing, but it’s too much,” the 35-year-old American wrote.

Hokit did not let that pass without a response. He questioned whether Strickland recognises how his own comments often land.

“Can you really not see yourself? Lol. You seem oblivious to the things you say,” the heavyweight wrote in reply.

He then added support for Strickland, saying: “With that being said, do it for our people tomorrow… And when the dust settles, if you want it, I’ll definitely give it to you.”

Hokit was an unexpected addition to the White House card, but the controversy has already made him a much bigger part of the wider storyline.

‘The Incredible Hok’ appears to be chasing title picture

Hokit’s sudden criticism of Pereira also looked calculated, rather than random, as he appears keen to push towards heavyweight title contention.

The unbeaten fighter is currently ranked No. 5 in the division, which already places him close to the top of the queue.

A win over Lewis would strengthen that case significantly and could make his name impossible to ignore in future title conversations.