Josh Hokit fires back at Alex Pereira release speculation

Josh Hokit says his UFC roster spot is secure after Alex Pereira hinted the promotion could cut ties with him soon.

Speaking at Wednesday's UFC White House media day, Pereira addressed his feud with Hokit and suggested the undefeated heavyweight might not stick around. "He's going to fight, but I don't know, I've heard some things here or there, maybe not even worth talking about because I don't even know if he's going to be there," Pereira told reporters, per MMA Fighting.

Hokit confirms new UFC contract

Hokit responded on an episode of UFC Freedom 250 Embedded, saying Pereira was talking nonsense. "When you put on a fight like how I put on last fight, I mean, I don't think I'm going anywhere," he said. "I just signed an eight-fight contract as well, so he's just talking just to talk."

The 28-year-old came off a unanimous decision win over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327 in April, earning two Fight Night bonuses totaling $100,000 in what was his biggest test as a professional. He meets Derrick Lewis at UFC White House this Sunday.

Pereira fights Ciryl Gane for an interim heavyweight title on the same card. If both win, a matchup between the two could materialize once undisputed champion Tom Aspinall returns. "Maybe he's running away," Hokit said. "Maybe he's scared."

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Josh Hokit responds to Alex Pereira implying UFC could release him