Gable Steveson fires back at Josh Hokit's threats following UFC 329

Gable Steveson made an emphatic statement in his UFC debut at UFC 329, defeating Elisha Ellison by first-round finish to extend his professional record to 4-0 with four consecutive opening-round victories. The Olympic gold medalist's dominant performance drew a response from polarizing UFC figure Josh Hokit, who issued threats directed at both Steveson and his mentor Jon Jones.

Hokit took to social media to respond to comments Steveson had made questioning his fighting ability, listing his athletic credentials before warning the rising heavyweight prospect to avoid him in the Octagon. "Remember, this ain't wrestling," Hokit wrote, claiming to be "the baddest man on the planet" and suggesting that Steveson and Jones should steer clear of him to avoid serious injury. The trash talk included boasts about Hokit's athletic background across multiple sports and accusations that his previous opponent quit against him.

At the UFC 329 post-fight press conference, Steveson responded with measured confidence, acknowledging Hokit as a capable fighter while suggesting their priorities differ fundamentally. "Like I said, I like Josh as a fighter," Steveson stated. "Josh is a character. Josh wants to make sure people follow him on Instagram or follow him on Twitter. I go out there and dominate. I go out there and win. So, if the time comes with Josh, if he doesn't move down before that, so be it, will make it happen." Steveson's response emphasized his focus on in-cage performance over social media promotion, leaving the door open for a future matchup if their paths cross at the same weight class.