Sports · Combat Sports · 5 hrs ago
Jimmy Smith warns Josh Hokit as UFC heavyweight title fight nears
Josh Hokit is scheduled to challenge Ciryl Gane for the UFC heavyweight title at Madison Square Garden on November 14.
Hokit has drawn attention for his controversial character and comments.
Former UFC commentator Jimmy Smith says a champion needs broad appeal to bring new fans into the sport.
He believes Hokit could attract viewers who want to see him lose, but may not draw in people who are not already fans.
UFC president Dana White has also expressed concerns about Hokit potentially becoming champion.
The title fight will show whether Hokit can take the belt, but Smith’s concern is about the effect his public image could have on the UFC if he does.
Former UFC commentator Jimmy Smith says Josh Hokit becoming heavyweight champion could turn away potential fans.
Hokit is scheduled to challenge Ciryl Gane for the title at Madison Square Garden on November 14.
Smith says a divisive champion may attract viewers who want to see him lose but may not draw in people who are not already fans.
He argues UFC champions should have broad appeal and bring new fans into the sport.
Hokit’s controversial character and comments have drawn attention, including a negative reaction from UFC president Dana White to his post-fight remarks at the White House.
- Who
- Josh Hokit and Ciryl Gane are set to fight for the UFC heavyweight title. Jimmy Smith has warned about the effect Hokit could have as champion.
- What
- Smith says Hokit’s divisive public image could turn away potential fans rather than bring new ones to the UFC.
- When
- The title fight is scheduled for November 14. The article was published October 12, 2026.
- Where
- The fight is scheduled to take place at Madison Square Garden.
- Why
- Smith says champions need broad appeal to bring people into the sport, and controversy could alienate some viewers.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Hokit made comments in a post-fight interview at the White House that drew a negative reaction from Dana White.
Bloody Elbow published Smith’s warning about Hokit potentially becoming champion.
Hokit is scheduled to challenge Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title at Madison Square Garden.
- Challenger
- Josh Hokit
- Opponent
- Ciryl Gane
- Title
- UFC heavyweight championship
- Venue
- Madison Square Garden
- Fight date
- November 14
What people are saying
You want champions to have crossover appeal
You’re turning off arguably half your audience with a champion.
Champs need to bring those people in.
Sources
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