Josh Hokit's rapid rise in the UFC heavyweight division has been nothing short of meteoric, and his latest fight announcement has once again thrust him into the spotlight. After a quick turnaround following his victory over Curtis Blaydes, Hokit is now set to face Derrick Lewis at UFC White House. But what makes this fight particularly intriguing is the potential for Hokit to break into the top three of the division, a feat that could be achieved with a victory over Lewis, who is currently ranked No. 5. This is especially interesting given Hokit's recent comments downplaying Sergei Pavlovich's win over Tallison Teixeira, which some might see as a bold statement. Pavlovich, ranked No. 3, has now called out Hokit for a potential fight in Shanghai in August, setting the stage for a potential showdown between two of the division's rising stars. However, Hokit's response to Pavlovich's challenge was not what the Russian might have hoped for, as he expressed his disdain for China and Russia in a rather colorful manner. This raises the question: will the UFC approve of this potential fight, or will it be a case of 'business before pleasure'? In my opinion, this fight could be a turning point for Hokit, who has already demonstrated his ability to quickly adapt and rise through the ranks. His performance against Blaydes was a testament to his skill and determination, and a win over Lewis could solidify his place among the division's elite. But it's also important to consider the potential implications of this fight for the UFC's future in China. The organization has been making efforts to expand its presence in the country, and a fight between two of the division's top contenders could be a significant draw for Chinese fans. However, the UFC's relationship with China has been tumultuous at times, and the organization's decision to host the fight in Shanghai could be a strategic move to strengthen its ties with the country. Either way, Hokit's next fight is set to be a thrilling encounter, and his performance will no doubt be a key factor in determining his future in the UFC. As for me, I'm excited to see how Hokit handles this challenge, and I'm sure his next fight will be a memorable one.
