UFC 334 Ciryl Gane vs Josh Hokit Prediction, Tale of the Tape and Analysis

Ciryl Gane is set t fight for the vacant UFC heavyweight championship against undefeated contender Josh Hokit in the main event of UFC 334 at Madison Square Garden in New York on November 14, 2026.

The five-round championship clash presents an intriguing matchup between one of the division’s most technically gifted strikers and an aggressive heavyweight contender who has enjoyed a remarkable rise through the UFC ranks.

Gane enters the contest following his victory over Alex Pereira at UFC Freedom 250, while Hokit secured his championship opportunity after defeating Derrick Lewis. Both fighters have plenty of momentum heading into the biggest fight of their respective careers.

However, with Gane’s experience at the highest level and Hokit’s undefeated record, there are plenty of questions surrounding how this heavyweight showdown will unfold.

Ciryl Gane: Record, Form and Strengths

Ciryl Gane has established himself as one of the most technically gifted heavyweights in mixed martial arts. The Frenchman is known for his exceptional footwork, movement and ability to control distance against some of the biggest fighters in the division.

Unlike traditional heavyweights who often rely on explosive power, Gane uses speed, accuracy and intelligent positioning to break down his opponents. His striking combinations and ability to move out of danger make him particularly difficult to deal with over five rounds.

Gane enters his first defence of the undisputed heavyweight championship after defeating Alex Pereira by second-round TKO at UFC Freedom 250. The victory earned him the interim title before he was elevated to undisputed champion following Tom Aspinall’s decision to vacate the belt.

The 36-year-old has previously shared the Octagon with elite opposition, including Jon Jones, Francis Ngannou and Alexander Volkov. That experience could prove crucial against a challenger who is still relatively new to the UFC.

His biggest challenge will be dealing with Hokit’s wrestling and preventing the American from turning the contest into a physically demanding grappling battle.

SHOP: Kickboxing Equipment

Josh Hokit: Record, Form and Strengths

Josh Hokit has quickly become one of the most talked-about rising heavyweights in the UFC. The American enters the championship contest with an undefeated professional record of 10-0.

A former collegiate wrestler and American football player, Hokit brings an interesting combination of athleticism, physical strength and wrestling ability to the heavyweight division.

He earned his UFC opportunity through Dana White’s Contender Series in August 2025 and has made an immediate impact since joining the promotion.

His victory over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327 was a significant breakthrough, demonstrating that he could compete against established heavyweight contenders. Hokit then followed it up with a TKO victory over Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250, earning himself a shot at the championship.

At 29, Hokit has youth on his side and will be looking to make the most of his opportunity against the experienced French champion.

His wrestling could be his biggest weapon in this matchup. If he can close the distance, secure takedowns and keep Gane against the fence, he could make life extremely uncomfortable for the champion.

However, facing a technically accomplished striker like Gane represents another major step up in competition.