Gane Dismisses Hokit's Act Before UFC 334

Ciryl Gane thinks Josh Hokit's loudmouth routine is all part of a plan.

The UFC heavyweight champion meets Hokit this Saturday at Madison Square Garden, and Gane told the promotion's countdown show that his opponent's outlandish behavior masks genuine intelligence, MMA Junkie reports. Hokit has trolled several fighters in recent months, including questioning whether Tom Aspinall truly suffered eye problems.

🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to Polymarket UFC 334: Gane vs Hokit on Ticketmaster →

Champion Sees Calculated Strategy Behind Challenger's Antics

Despite recent stoppage wins over Curtis Blaydes and Derrick Lewis that earned Hokit the title shot, Gane said the challenger's approach doesn't impress him. The Frenchman called Hokit savvy for understanding that controversy creates opportunity. "He pretends he's a clown," Gane said, according to the report, adding that Hokit is far smarter than he lets on.

Gane inherited undisputed status when Aspinall vacated the belt due to injury. The champion had claimed interim gold by finishing Alex Pereira last June and moved up when Aspinall withdrew from their scheduled rematch with lingering health issues.

🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to Polymarket UFC 334: Gane vs Hokit on Ticketmaster →

Gane closed by forecasting both an entertaining bout and his own victory when the cage door shuts.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Ciryl Gane isn’t buying into Josh Hokit’s gimmick despite antics: “He pretends he’s a clown”