Alexander Volkov: Josh Hokit's Title Shot Due to 'Mental Illness'?
Alexander Volkov offered a cynical take on Josh Hokit securing a heavyweight title shot. Following Tom Aspinall's relinquishing of the UFC heavyweight title, Ciryl Gane was elevated to undisputed champion and is slated to face rising contender Josh Hokit at UFC 334.
Hokit earned his opportunity with recent victories over Derrick Lewis and Curtis Blaydes in 2026. This decision placed him ahead of established fighters like Volkov and Sergei Pavlovich in the division's hierarchy.
Volkov, who missed out on the title contention, implied that Hokit's unconventional public image might have played a role in his rapid ascent.
Volkov's Scathing Remarks on Hokit's Title Shot
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Volkov sarcastically commented on the UFC's matchmaking:
“To be honest, I fully support this fight from the UFC. I have many reasons why this fight needs to happen. From what I understand, Josh Hokit is clearly dealing with a mental health issue. It’s admirable that the UFC is giving a fighter with a significant mental condition a title shot,” Volkov stated.
He continued, “He should absolutely go ahead of me. Fighters with these kinds of circumstances should get priority. Since he can’t beat a Top 5 opponent right now, this is the easiest route for an American Heavyweight to challenge for the title. It’s an incredibly inspiring narrative: a man with mental health challenges fighting for the Heavyweight championship. I strongly back the UFC’s decision. It’s a compassionate move by the UFC given his mental condition.” (Reported by MMA Mania)
Volkov recently secured wins against Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Jailton Almeida, bouncing back from a disputed loss to Gane at UFC 310.
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