
Heavyweight contender sparks mixed reactions with chaotic pre-fight antics
Josh Hokit capped off a chaotic fight week by grabbing the microphone from Joe Rogan and putting on an unexpected show during the UFC 327 ceremonial weigh-in.
The rising heavyweight, set to face Curtis Blaydes, has already drawn attention with his outlandish behavior throughout the week. From adopting alter egos to stirring reactions online, Hokit has turned what was a relatively quiet matchup into one of the most talked-about fights on the card.
Despite visible disapproval from Dana White, Hokit doubled down on his approach during the weigh-in. After walking on stage, he danced alongside the ring girls before taking Rogan’s microphone—an unusual move at a UFC event.
“Don’t twist my noodle, toy poodle,” he shouted. “I’m going to toast him like a toaster strudel.” He then addressed the crowd with his now-familiar line: “Am I right Miami?”—only to be met with loud boos as he stepped onto the scales.
Hokit weighed in at 233lb, notably 28 pounds lighter than Blaydes, adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup.
While Hokit commanded attention, Blaydes remained unfazed during their brief face-off, refusing to engage with the theatrics for yet another time this week. The moment lacked intensity compared to the surrounding spectacle, with the focus staying firmly on Hokit’s performance.
After leaving the stage, the former NFL player continued his act backstage in an interview with Megan Olivi, switching into his “shy Josh” persona.
Whether his approach will translate into success inside the Octagon remains to be seen, but Hokit has already ensured all eyes are on him heading into fight night.
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