Josh Hokit earns UFC contract, criticizes NFL as a liberal league

In the United States, former NFL fullback Josh Hokit made headlines after earning a UFC contract on Dana White's Contender Series by defeating Guilherme Uriel. The fight, held recently, concluded in the second round when Hokit knocked out his opponent with a series of elbows while Uriel was on the mat. The match showcased Hokit’s skills as he demonstrated his striking ability, ultimately leading to the referee stopping the bout. Following his victory, Hokit expressed strong opinions about the NFL, referring to it as a 'liberal, snowflake' league, and indicated his interest in tackling issues he feels strongly about through his fighting career. He declared a desire to fight 'sex traffickers, pedophiles, rapists,' and even mentioned 'transgender fighters' as potential opponents, suggesting that he wants to hold them accountable for their actions inside the octagon. Hokit had been associated with the NFL when he joined the San Francisco 49ers in 2020, but he never played in a regular-season game, spending time mainly on the practice squad. Despite his NFL experience, he has made a significant impact in mixed martial arts, remaining undefeated so far in his career and previously competing in Bellator before joining the UFC. This fight marks a significant milestone for Hokit as it brings him one step closer to his goal of achieving the coveted UFC gold. Moreover, amidst this backdrop, the NFL has recently announced that it will be cracking down on unsportsmanlike and sexually suggestive gestures for the 2025 season, aiming to enhance sportsmanship among players. The league noted a significant rise in inappropriate gestures and indicated a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport as a priority for the upcoming season. With various points of emphasis outlined by NFL officials, it’s clear that the league seeks to foster respectful behavior while allowing players other avenues for celebration.