Dana White won't scold Josh Hokit over controversial remarks ahead of UFC 334 title fight
Josh Hokit faces controversy for his words, but Dana White will not reprimand the new No. 1 contender in the UFC heavyweight division.
Following speculation, UFC 331 confirmed Hokit will challenge Ciryl Gane for the undisputed UFC heavyweight title. Gane's claim to the title follows Tom Aspinall's vacancy. The Gane vs. Hokit bout is set to headline UFC 331 at Madison Square Garden in New York City on November 14.
Hokit's demeanor has drawn criticism. White previously condemned Hokit for referring to former First Lady Michelle Obama as a man after Hokit's UFC Freedom 250 win over Derrick Lewis. Despite this, the UFC president has consistently supported his fighters' freedom of expression. Speaking to reporters at the UFC 331 post-fight press conference, White confirmed he would not make an exception in Hokit's case.
"I don't police what people say," White stated. "I always say it—I don’t have to like you for you to thrive here and do well and be successful. Many people I don't like have done very well here. I'm not saying I don't like Josh Hokit.
"I literally don't f*cking like anything Josh Hokit says. That won't change unless he changes, which I don't see happening. I'll have to deal with that. That's a 'me' issue and I'm sure a 'you' issue."
In the Octagon, Hokit has proven his capabilities. The undefeated fighter demonstrated his skill with a "Fight of the Night" performance against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 311 in April, earning a unanimous decision. His win over Lewis further cemented his standing in the heavyweight division.
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