Sean Strickland isn’t holding back when it comes to the rising profile of Josh Hokit, questioning the authenticity behind the heavyweight contender’s increasingly loud persona.
During a recent media scrum ahead of his title fight against reigning middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 this Saturday, Strickland was asked about Hokit’s rise and the attention he’s been generating outside the cage.
While the former 185-pound titleholder didn’t deny “The Incredible Hok’s” abilities, he made it clear he’s not impressed by the way the heavyweight has been presenting himself.
“Josh Hokit, you’re a grown-a** man,” Strickland said.
“You’re like almost 30 years old, and you’re acting like a fu*k Jake Paul when he was 13. Stop, bro. You made it, people know who you are, just stop. You don’t have to interview homeless people and be fu*k weird, just fight now!
“The thing I don’t like about Josh, and again I’ve met Josh and trained with him, he’s a very likable guy. He’s a really nice guy, and I consider him a friend of mine, but at some point, it’s such a fabricated image, and it reminds you of a WWE skit.”
Hokit’s Fast Rise Paired With Polarizing Image
Hokit’s transition from professional football to MMA has been rapid, and his performances have quickly pushed him into the heavyweight spotlight. His recent win over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327 elevated him into the division’s top tier and reinforced his potential as a serious contender.
At the same time, “The Incredible Hok” has leaned heavily into a chaotic, attention-grabbing persona. His pre-fight antics and bold, often bizarre statements have made him one of the more polarizing figures in the UFC. Some fans see it as entertainment and marketability, while others believe it overshadows his actual skill set.
Despite the criticism, Hokit’s momentum continues to build. He is scheduled to face Derrick Lewis at the White House event on June 14, a high-profile opportunity that could push him even closer to title contention.