Cain Velasquez compares Josh Hokit to Conor McGregor, predicts UFC 334 main event
Former UFC champion Cain Velasquez discussed the rise of fighter Josh Hokit, comparing his provocative personality to Conor McGregor. Hokit is scheduled to face Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title at UFC 334.
Why it matters
The comparison highlights the evolving marketing strategies in professional MMA, where controversial personas are increasingly used to drive viewership.
Cain Velasquez is one of the greatest heavyweights to ever compete in the sport of mixed martial arts, and the division, the sport — along with the UFC — has changed quite a bit since he last competed. That includes the rapid rise of Josh Hokit, who gets his first crack at UFC gold this weekend.
Hokit is set to challenge Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 334, which takes place Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Hokit has competed four times in the promotion, including a 3-0 run in 2026 featuring a Fight of the Year contender against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327 in April, along with a UFC White House stoppage of Derrick Lewis.
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