Undefeated UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit defended his status within the promotion during the UFC Freedom 250 media events in Washington.
He responded directly to insinuations from Alex Pereira that the organization might release him ahead of his bout against Derrick Lewis on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Tension escalated throughout fight week, which featured a delayed final press conference on Friday due to inclement weather.
The start time was pushed by 65 minutes to 9:20 p. m.
ET, as reported by the UFC.
Pereira Questions Hokit's Future
During Wednesday's media day, Pereira expressed his dislike for Hokit and questioned the heavyweight's future with the company following Hokit's repeated promotional antics.
Pereira said, "We can't remove him out of the card on Sunday, he's already in there, so he's going to fight, but I've just heard a thing or two—I don't even know if he's going to be a part of this organization going forward."
Hokit, who holds a 9-0 MMA and 3-0 UFC record, dismissed the remarks on an episode of UFC Freedom 250 Embedded.
He pointed to his recent unanimous decision victory over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327, which earned him two $100,000 Fight Night bonuses.
"Pereira could say whatever," Hokit said.
He further clarified that his position in the heavyweight division remains highly secure based on his recent contract negotiations.
"When you put on a fight like how I put on last fight, I mean, I don't think I'm going anywhere.
I just signed an eight-fight contract as well, so he's just talking just to talk."
The undefeated contender openly questioned whether Pereira's comments stemmed from personal apprehension. "Maybe he's running away," Hokit said.
"Maybe he's scared. Maybe he hopes that Dana White kicks me out.
It doesn't matter what I say, because the most important thing is still what these fists talking about."
Hokit's Antics and Clash with Topuria
In addition to his feud with Pereira, Hokit held a mock standup comedy routine in front of reporters on Wednesday.
He referenced his upcoming match against Lewis, which was added to the card at the request of President Trump.
"This is why I don't do standup comedy, dude," Hokit said, acknowledging the poor reception. "I'm bombing right now, dog."
Hokit detailed a bizarre hypothetical scenario involving his opponent. "Derrick Lewis, I'm going to have him kidnapped by a group of mimes.
The things they will do to him will be unspeakable."
He later explained the origin of his "Down Vato" persona, tracing it back to his college football playing days at Fresno State.
"Believe it or not, it is me. I'm from an area where there is a lot of cholo-type of guys," he said.
The fighter noted that his manager advised him to drop the characters and act like himself for the White House event.
The multi-character antics led to a confrontation during Friday's press conference.
Hokit initially tried to apologize to featherweight champion Ilia Topuria for past disruptions, attributing his behavior to nervousness and his 'Incredible Hok' persona.
"I just wanna apologize for ruining the press conference last time," Hokit said. He attempted to compliment the other fighters on the stage.
"I like Topuria too, I like Pereira, those are my favorite fighters." The 29-year-old stated he was deviating from his usual promotional characters for the day.
"I'm nervous right now. It's just regular Josh today."
Topuria rejected the compliments, growing annoyed by Hokit's continuous interjections. "Can you just shut up?
Can someone shut this guy up?" Topuria said, firmly demanding that Hokit remain quiet.
"Thank you, but shut up." Following the rejection, Hokit abandoned his apologetic tone and insulted Topuria's height and personal life.
"I think Topuria's so mad, he's so short he can't see himself in the bathroom mirror. And he married a stripper from Miami."
