Josh Hokit targets two more UFC fights, $4M payday in 2026

UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit says he could compete twice more before the end of 2026 and finish the year with three to four million dollars in earnings despite facing criticism for his post-fight comments at UFC Freedom 250.

Hokit told The Ariel Helwani Show that another fight this year is likely and a title shot remains possible within his original two-year timeline. "I might even fight two times. I think there's news on the horizon," he said, per MMA Mania. "There's a great chance [I fight for the title this year]. I said on the Contender Series, I said in two years, I'd be champion or fight for the title at least."

Hokit claims controversy driving earning power

The New Zealand fighter suggested his polarizing public statements have accelerated his financial opportunities in the promotion. He claimed to have made seven figures in seven months and predicted his 2026 total could reach four million. "It might be quicker than people would like," he said when asked about his next booking.

Hokit's victory speech at the White House event on June 14 drew widespread backlash after he declared "Michelle Obama is a man," a remark that dominated political news cycles in the days that followed. He described the incident as an exercise in free speech. "I thought it was a perfect opportunity to show the world how great this country is with the freedom of speech, you know?" he said.

Despite public criticism from UFC CEO Dana White, Hokit said he has received no direct communication from UFC brass about the comments. White reportedly told media the event "delivered" and posted strong Paramount Plus viewership, though he distanced himself from Hokit's remarks. The fighter remains unbothered. "If they really felt a type of way, they would message me," he said. A fight announcement could arrive before the summer is out.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Josh Hokit aiming for two more fights and ‘a four million dollar’ 2026 despite White House controversy