Velasquez backs Hokit to dethrone Gane at UFC 334, compares challenger to McGregor

Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has thrown his weight behind Josh Hokit ahead of UFC 334, predicting the unbeaten contender will defeat Ciryl Gane for the undisputed heavyweight title at Madison Square Garden on Saturday night.

Hokit enters the fight having gone 3-0 inside the UFC in 2026, a run that included a Fight of the Year contender against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327 in April and a stoppage of Derrick Lewis at UFC White House. Despite holding just four promotional appearances, the 26-year-old has earned a title shot — and, in Velasquez’s view, deserves every bit of it.

“He’s definitely proven himself, that he’s a well-renowned mixed martial artist,” Velasquez told MMA Fighting. “He deserves what he’s getting as far as a title shot. He’s fought those guys to get there.”

Velasquez also drew a pointed comparison between Hokit’s outspoken public persona — which has generated controversy for comments about opponents, their family members, and public figures, drawing criticism from UFC CEO Dana White — and the trajectory of Conor McGregor. “He’s also taking the route, somewhat of a Conor McGregor, to speak in a way that creates tension,” Velasquez said.

Gane arrives as champion under complicated circumstances. His October 2025 bout with then-champion Tom Aspinall at UFC 321 was ruled a no-contest after Gane landed an eye poke; Aspinall has not competed since and subsequently vacated the title. Gane then claimed the interim heavyweight belt against Alex Pereira at UFC White House, though the finish was clouded by shots to the back of the head. He was elevated to undisputed champion following Aspinall’s departure.

Velasquez is unconvinced that reign will last beyond Saturday. “I think Josh is gonna surprise people,” he said. “He’s complete — way, way more complete than Gane is. Great wrestling, great hands, as you’ve seen. When the time comes to fight on a big stage, that’s the hardest part. He’s proven that. I see him winning this fight.”

UFC 334 takes place Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York City, with the Hokit-Gane heavyweight title bout headlining the card.