Josh Hokit is rapidly emerging as one of the most intriguing prospects in the UFC heavyweight division.
The unbeaten 28-year-old holds a 9-0 professional record and faced Curtis Blaydes, a former title contender ranked sixth, in just his third UFC appearance.
While his eccentric personality has drawn attention, his performances inside the Octagon have matched the hype, earning him a bout with Derrick Lewis on the upcoming White House card.
Josh Hokit’s rise leaves a ranked UFC heavyweight questioning himself
Hokit’s display at UFC 327, particularly his victory over Blaydes, has already had an impact on fellow fighters in the division.
Valter Walker, currently ranked 15th among heavyweights, admitted he was shaken after comparing his own career trajectory to Hokit’s.
“I saw that Josh Hokit is 28 years old, my age. I thought: ‘Bro, I’m a piece of s—.’ I’m scared of fighting ranked guys at 28 years old and the guy is thrashing the ranked guys. I’m a loser,” he told Brazlian journalist Laerte Vianna.
“I have to stop being a coward and go for it. The guy did better than me in everything. He managed to be crazier than me, he managed to fight better than me, I looked at his age and the guy is my age. I’m a loser.
“I have to go back to the cage, I have to beat this guy one day. Bro, starting tomorrow I have to change my life, I have to change my mindset.”
Walker has previously stated he prefers to build his career at a measured pace, avoiding top contenders until he feels ready for that level.
His last fight came in October 2025, and with Hokit’s rapid rise, the Brazilian heavyweight is expected to drop out of the rankings after the newcomer’s recent performances.
