In the world of mixed martial arts, where words and fists collide, Dustin Poirier has found a new favorite to watch: Josh Hokit. Poirier, a seasoned fighter himself, recently praised Hokit's performance at UFC 327, where the up-and-coming heavyweight showcased his skills in a thrilling bout against Curtis Blaydes.
Hokit's performance was nothing short of remarkable. He not only backed up his pre-fight talk but also delivered a performance that left fans and critics alike in awe. His aggressive style and ability to withstand Blaydes' powerful strikes showcased a fighter who is more than just talk. Poirier, ever the astute observer, saw in Hokit a fighter who embodies the essence of a true champion.
"When stars start to align, you've seen it in Conor McGregor, when you talk the talk and you walk the walk," Poirier said on the podcast 'About Last Fight.' He continued, "You've seen it in 'Suga' Sean O'Malley. You've seen Chael Sonnen. We've seen it time and time again where guys talk the talk and walk the walk, and Hokit just did it this week. He talked a big game and he went out there and put on one of the best heavyweight fights we've seen and got his hand raised. Good things happen, you become a star."
Hokit's performance not only earned him a victory and a $200,000 bonus but also a quick turnaround. He was immediately booked for a fight against Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250, further cementing his rise in the sport. Poirier's admiration for Hokit is a testament to the power of action and the impact it can have on a fighter's career.
What makes Hokit's success particularly intriguing is the contrast between his pre-fight antics and his in-ring performance. While some may have dismissed his character-driven approach as mere showmanship, Hokit's ability to translate that into a dominant performance in the octagon speaks volumes about his skill and determination. Poirier's comparison to McGregor highlights the potential for a fighter to transcend their reputation and become a true champion.
As Hokit continues to climb the ranks, his story serves as a reminder that in the world of MMA, talk can indeed be turned into action. It remains to be seen if Hokit can maintain this momentum and become a household name, but one thing is certain: Poirier's endorsement has added fuel to the fire, and the MMA world is taking notice.
