Former champion Hill targets unbeaten Hokit in bold UFC heavyweight move

Jamahal Hill is wasting no time announcing himself at UFC heavyweight, calling out undefeated contender Josh Hokit as his preferred first opponent at the new weight class.

The former light heavyweight champion, who won the 205-pound belt by defeating Glover Teixeira before injuries and a three-fight losing streak derailed his reign, confirmed earlier this year that he is committing full-time to heavyweight. Rather than rebuild from the bottom of the rankings, Hill (12-4) is demanding an immediate top-five test.

“Top 5 — I’d love to fight the Top 5,” Hill told media outlets via MMA Junkie. “I feel as though even if I continued fighting at light heavyweight, it would be Top 5. I’d like to see the same thing here.”

Of all the potential opponents available, Hill made clear that Hokit is the one he wants most. “I want Josh Hokit first fight,” he said. “That’s definitely a fight I want more than any other fight. That’s the fight that I want.”

Hokit (10-0) arrives at this potential matchup with a perfect professional record and considerable momentum. The controversial heavyweight most recently defeated Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250 and has also developed a public feud with former two-division champion and interim heavyweight title challenger Alex Pereira, making him one of the division’s most talked-about figures.

Hill, 35, believes his style will carry over effectively to the heavier weight class, citing the pressure and punching power that made him a genuine threat at 205 pounds. He also framed the move as something the division itself needs.

“It’s something I’ve been considering for a while,” Hill said. “I feel that now’s a good time. Heavyweight can use some energy, can use some life, especially up in the contenders and the rankings and things of that nature.”

No date or venue has been confirmed for the proposed bout, but Hill’s willingness to target one of the division’s most polarising names signals he has no intention of easing into his heavyweight chapter.