In a scene straight out of a blockbuster fight week, the UFC White House press conference turned explosive as Max Holloway didn't hold back, slamming Josh Hokit's antics and throwing his full support behind Ilia Topuria.
Josh Hokit, the rising heavyweight who's been making waves without even stepping into the Octagon this week, found another way to steal the spotlight in Newark during UFC 328. Known for his wild celebrations after a win over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327, Hokit kept the momentum going at Friday's press conference—but this time, it wasn't his fists doing the talking.
Hokit set his sights on Alex Pereira, but Ilia Topuria quickly stepped in to defend "Poatan." The tension escalated fast: Hokit was escorted out by security after a heated clash with Topuria, who responded by standing up and hurling something across the stage. It was chaos, and the MMA world had plenty to say.
While commentators like Joe Rogan and Chael Sonnen have backed Hokit's aggressive approach, UFC President Dana White made it clear he's not a fan. "It's not something I enjoy," White said, echoing the sentiments of a large portion of the fanbase who feel Hokit's act is wearing thin.
Max Holloway, the former featherweight champion and fan favorite, weighed in during a stream on his Kick channel. "I saw the clip. It's crazy," Holloway said. "Somebody had to tell that guy. That guy's act is getting out of control. It's good that he (Topuria) did that. It's good Ilia did that."
This wasn't Hokit's only incident of the weekend. He also had a run-in with Paulo Costa during Saturday night's event at the Prudential Center. With his next fight scheduled for June 14 against Derrick Lewis—on the White House lawn, no less—security will likely be on high alert when he shows up.
In the world of combat sports, where personalities are as big as the punches, Hokit's antics are a reminder that the drama never stops. Whether you're a fan of his style or not, one thing's for sure: the UFC never fails to deliver fireworks, both inside and outside the Octagon.