Josh Hokit Claims He’s Dana White’s ‘Favorite Fighter’ After UFC CEO’s Brutal Criticism: ‘Whole World Could Be Against Me’

Josh Hokit appears completely unfazed by Dana White admitting that he has a problem with the outspoken heavyweight potentially becoming UFC champion.

The UFC CEO addressed Hokit’s personality after UFC 331 in Los Angeles, acknowledging that he does not like much of what the undefeated contender says but insisting that personal feelings will not stop a fighter from succeeding inside the promotion.

ACD MMA

@acdmma_

Dana White seems to be nervous about Josh Hokit potentially becoming UFC heavyweight champion 😬 “I literally don’t f**king like anything Josh Hokit says.”

4:43 AM · Sep 20, 2026

Hokit now has a chance to make that point even louder when he challenges Ciryl Gane for the undisputed UFC heavyweight championship. The blockbuster matchup headlines UFC 334 on November 14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

HEAVYWEIGHT CHAOS IS COMING

@Ciryl_Gane will face @Josh_HokitUFC for the undisputed heavyweight title at #Polymarket #UFC334!

[ LIVE NOVEMBER 14 on @ParamountPlus ] https://t.co/xYtaFiBCMI

Josh Hokit Responds To Dana White’s Criticism

Josh Hokit addressed White’s comments during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, suggesting that the UFC CEO’s public stance does not reflect what he really thinks of the heavyweight contender.

Dana has to say that. Deep down, I’m Dana’s favorite fighter. He can’t wait for my fights,” Hokit said.

“The Incredible Hok” then made it clear that winning over the UFC boss, or anyone else, is not part of his agenda.

“At the end of the day, I didn’t join this sport to be liked by anybody. The whole world could be against me. If you like me or not, it is what it is.”

White had previously acknowledged that Hokit’s personality could create plenty of headaches if he continues climbing the heavyweight ranks, but also stressed that fighters do not need to be personally liked to succeed in the UFC.

That reality has already worked in Hokit’s favor. The 28-year-old is 10-0 overall and 4-0 inside the UFC after making his promotional debut in November 2025. His rapid rise has been fueled by four consecutive victories, including his recent TKO of Derrick Lewis and a Fight of the Night performance against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327.