Josh Hokit responds to Tom Aspinall vacating UFC title: ‘I’ll give Ciryl what he has coming’

Josh Hokit has made his case for a UFC heavyweight title shot following Tom Aspinall's decision to vacate the belt. Aspinall stepped down Monday after complications from eye injuries sustained during his UFC 321 title fight against Ciryl Gane, who was struck multiple times in the eyes during the bout. With Aspinall out, interim champion Gane is now the undisputed heavyweight champion and will defend the title in due course.

Hokit, a rising contender who has impressed since joining the UFC through the Contender Series last year, believes he deserves the next crack at Gane. In a statement released after Aspinall's announcement, Hokit declared: "The fans deserve Me vs Gane. I'll give Ciryl what he has coming. If Alex can win 1 fight in my weight class, I'll give it to him too, early '27. I'll be the most active champ in the company."

Also seeking a rematch with Gane is Alex Pereira, the interim champion's most recent opponent, who points to fouls committed during their UFC White House encounter this summer. However, Hokit's recent form makes a compelling case for his contention. The heavyweight has posted four consecutive UFC victories since his Contender Series selection, with three ending in stoppage, and has earned four post-fight bonuses for his efforts. Most recently, he finished Derrick Lewis at UFC White House, continuing an impressive streak.

Hokit has become known for his vocal personality and active presence on social media, regularly engaging with other fighters. His outspoken nature was on display at UFC White House, where he was removed from the pre-fight press conference for his antics. Nevertheless, his combination of winning performances and fan engagement has positioned him as a legitimate contender in the heavyweight division.