Josh Hokit Challenges Ciryl Gane for Heavyweight Title at UFC 334

Josh Hokit will challenge Ciryl Gane for the undisputed heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 334 at Madison Square Garden on November 14. Hokit made his UFC debut one year ago and has since won four consecutive fights, bringing his career record to 10 bouts after starting MMA in 2023.

Gane holds a 14-2 record, with his only losses coming against Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones. He won an interim heavyweight title by knocking out Alex Pereira at UFC White House and was later promoted to undisputed champion after Tom Aspinall suffered an injury recovery setback.

“I want to see Josh Hokit win so bad. I want to see him continue this character and be just an absolute menace to the UFC.”

Sean O’Malley said he wants Hokit to win and continue being “an absolute menace to the UFC.” O’Malley noted that Hokit must crack Gane early to have a chance, though Gane’s résumé includes victories over the best fighters in the division.

Hokit, who is 28 years old, said he expects the fight could turn dirty and that he has a plan to respond to illegal moves. He stated he will not initiate fouls but will retaliate if Gane lands eye pokes or strikes to the back of the head.

Gane has faced criticism from previous opponents for alleged illegal strikes, including a low blow against Jon Jones at UFC 285 and a double eye poke in October 2025. Hokit’s recent performances include a notable brawl against Curtis Blaydes.

The card also features a historic bantamweight bout between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes. Aspinall is expected to return in 2027, raising questions about how critics will rate the winner of Saturday’s main event.