Josh Hokit Calls for Title Shot After Tom Aspinall Vacates UFC Belt

UFC heavyweight contender Josh Hokit is making his case for the next title shot following major changes atop the division. On Monday, UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall vacated his title after suffering a setback in his recovery from eye injuries stemming from eye pokes by Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. Following Aspinall's decision, Gane—who claimed the interim belt by defeating Alex Pereira at UFC White House this summer—has become the undisputed champion.

While Pereira has lobbied for a rematch with Gane citing alleged foul play, Hokit is pushing for his own opportunity at the championship. The rising heavyweight made his intentions clear regarding both the title and a potential future matchup with Pereira. "If Alex can win 1 fight in my weight class, I’ll give it to him too, early ‘27," Hokit said, as reported by MMA Fighting. "I’ll be the most active champ in the company."

Hokit entered the promotion last year after earning a UFC contract through Dana White's Contender Series. Nicknamed "The Incredible Hok," he has compiled four victories inside the Octagon, securing three stoppage wins and earning four post-fight bonuses. Most recently, Hokit finished Derrick Lewis at UFC White House. Known as one of the roster's most outspoken fighters for regularly trolling peers, Hokit was previously removed from pre-fight UFC White House activities leading up to that event.