Jon Jones Shares Prediction for Ciryl Gane vs. Josh Hokit at UFC 334
Jon Jones, the UFC legend, recently gave his insight on the heavyweight championship clash between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit scheduled for UFC 334. This event will happen on November 14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Ciryl Gane has become the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion after Tom Aspinall had to vacate the title due to an eye injury. He is set to defend his belt against the undefeated former NFL player, Josh Hokit. Interestingly, Hokit trains alongside Jones at Jackson Wink MMA Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Jones Comments on Gane vs. Hokit
In an interview with The Schmo, Jones expressed respect for both fighters but hinted at a close contest. He said,
"Josh looks great right now. He's doing a great job, obviously coached by some of the best in the world. I've always supported wrestlers and backed wrestlers. It’s interesting because I have Gable Steveson, and there are words exchanged back and forth. It's awkward, but deep down, behind Gable, I'm supporting all the guys."
He continued,
"I want to see everyone live healthy lives and succeed in business and family, so I root for everybody. I'd be lying if I said that the more people Ciryl Gane beats, it doesn't make our team look special. So my prediction is that Hokit very well could win, but it also makes our brand shine when Ciryl wins. May the best man win."
Thoughts on UFC 335's Heavyweight Matchup
Jones also shared his views about the upcoming UFC 335 fight on December 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, featuring Alex Pereira against Sergei Pavlovich. Despite his hesitation to predict the outcome, he remarked,
"The Alex who showed up last fight seemed hesitant, maybe second guessing himself. I expected a bigger challenge against Ciryl Gane, so it’s hard to say how this will go. I’ll be watching closely, and again, may the best man win."
The UFC 335 main event will feature a five-round BMF title fight between champion Charles Oliveira and fan favorite Diego Lopes.
Looking Ahead in the UFC Heavyweight Division
The winner of the Pereira vs. Pavlovich bout might face the victor of Gane vs. Hokit in 2027. The heavyweight division has been stalled due to Aspinall’s injury, which paused title defenses for over a year. Should Aspinall recover and get clearance, he could receive an immediate title shot next year.
