Alex Pereira’s Ciryl Gane rematch demand sparks brutal Josh Hokit tirade

Alex Pereira's demand for an immediate rematch against heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane has drawn sharp criticism from contender Josh Hokit, who argues the former two-division UFC titleholder has not earned such an opportunity. Pereira was stopped via technical knockout by Gane at UFC Freedom 250 and has yet to record a victory at heavyweight, complicating his case for a swift rematch.

Hokit launched a pointed social media tirade against Pereira's rematch campaign, questioning the logic of running back a bout that saw the Brazilian "demolished" by Gane. Instead, Hokit suggested Pereira face Sergei Spivac—a striker with inferior athleticism compared to Gane—before receiving another title shot. "As a fan, that fight makes no fucking sense," Hokit wrote on X. "How about you get one fucking win in this weight class before you are gifted another title shot."

Hokit further dissected Pereira's wrestling defense, dismissing claims built on the knockout victory over Magomed Ankalaev last year. The American contended that Ankalaev represents only basic Sambo and Greco-Roman wrestling, not elite NCAA or Olympic freestyle wrestling—the caliber Hokit himself possesses. Hokit emphasized his own wrestling credentials, citing his dominance over Denzell Freeman, the No. 4 U.S. Olympic Greco wrestler.

In a lengthy follow-up post, Hokit alleged that Gane would accept a Pereira rematch over facing him because Pereira represents an easier, more profitable opportunity. Hokit also claimed that Gane's brother and trainer had told him backstage that Hokit is viewed as the next UFC heavyweight champion, suggesting strategic matchmaking favoring both Pereira and Gane over a test against the American contender.