Hokit Trains For Gane Eye Pokes With Pepper Spray

Josh Hokit is taking an unconventional approach to his UFC 334 preparation by having cornermen pepper spray him mid-sparring session.

The fifth-ranked heavyweight contender faces champion Ciryl Gane for the 265-pound belt later this month in New York, and Hokit's team is simulating blurred vision in camp to account for Gane's track record of eye pokes. MMA Mania posted video of Hokit taking capsaicin to the face between exchanges, an unorthodox drill two weeks out from the biggest fight of his career.

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Hokit Earned Title Shot At UFC White House

The method carries real risk beyond social media attention. Pepper spray typically clears within an hour, but documented cases of hospitalization and permanent injury exist following routine exposure. Hokit, undefeated at 10-0, secured his title opportunity by finishing Derrick Lewis at UFC White House in June.

Gane claimed undisputed status at the same event by beating Alex Pereira before Tom Aspinall vacated the heavyweight strap. The Frenchman now carries a 14-2 record into the November showdown at Madison Square Garden.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Video: UFC 334’s Josh Hokit trains for Ciryl Gane eye pokes by getting pepper sprayed while sparring