Josh Hokit aims to provoke Ilia Topuria ahead of UFC Freedom 250
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 3:30 PM
Last updated Jun 14, 2026
Josh Hokit stated he is attempting to help Justin Gaethje by provoking Ilia Topuria as they prepare for UFC Freedom 250, scheduled for Sunday at the White House. At a pre-fight press conference, Hokit alternated between praise and insults directed at Topuria, including remarks about the lightweight champion's ex-wife, prompting Dana White to halt the proceedings. Hokit believes that his comments may distract Topuria during his fight against Gaethje. Both fighters faced challenges due to ongoing weight cuts leading up to their respective bouts.
- •Hokit fights in the heavyweight division.
- •The pre-fight press conference was held at the Lincoln Memorial.
- •Dana White suspended the press conference after Hokit’s remarks.
- •The fights are set to take place at UFC Freedom 250 on Sunday.
- 3:30 PMYahoo Sports — Josh Hokit claims he was helping Justin Gaethje by trolling Ilia Topuria
"Josh Hokit claims he is trying to help Justin Gaethje by getting Ilia Topuria riled up.
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