‘Turn his mic off!’: Ilia Topuria erupts on Josh Hokit after constant interruptions at UFC White House press conference

Josh Hokit's appearance at a UFC White House press conference on Friday descended into chaos, as the fighter repeatedly interrupted Ilia Topuria and other panelists despite his attempts to maintain a subdued demeanor.

Hokit, known for his erratic on-stage behavior, claimed he was trying to keep his "Incredible Hok" alter ego in check after being escorted off stage at a separate pre-fight press conference earlier in the week following an altercation with Topuria and Alex Pereira. He opened his remarks with an apology, saying "it's just regular Josh, today" and thanking UFC CEO Dana White for having him. However, he almost immediately began interjecting during other fighters' responses to questions not directed at him.

During Topuria's answers, Hokit made a series of strange comments, including references to Pereira feeding Topuria's food to him like a bird. Though Topuria initially accepted the compliments, he quickly grew frustrated, repeatedly telling Hokit to shut up. The interruptions continued, with Hokit making increasingly personal remarks, including a jab about Topuria's height and a crude reference to his wife.

Topuria's patience wore thin as Hokit persisted, eventually erupting: "Turn his mic off! Shut up!" White ultimately ended the press conference, bringing the uncomfortable spectacle to a close. The incident highlighted the thin line between entertainment and disruption at official UFC events, as Hokit's unpredictable behavior tested the tolerance of fighters, organizers, and attendees alike.