Derrick Lewis isn’t convinced Josh Hokit is making the right decision. Just days before their heavyweight clash at UFC Freedom 250 on the South Lawn of the White House, Lewis raised concerns about Hokit’s rapid return to competition following one of the most brutal heavyweight battles of the year.
While Hokit enters the historic event undefeated and riding significant momentum, Lewis believes the physical toll from his last fight could become a major factor when they meet Sunday night.
According to Lewis, 64 days may not be enough time to recover from the punishment Hokit absorbed in his last outing. At UFC 327, Hokit survived an all-out war against Curtis Blaydes, absorbing 214 total strikes, including 174 significant strikes, in what many considered one of the most memorable heavyweight fights in recent memory.
The damage was so extensive that Hokit was reportedly still receiving post-fight medical treatment when the UFC officially announced his bout with Lewis.
Lewis sees that as a red flag. “I believe so,” Lewis said when asked whether Hokit may be returning too quickly. “Even if he wanted to fight a couple of seconds, I still believe your body and your brain still need time off. I believe he’s making a mistake.”
Hokit Riding Momentum Into White House Event
Despite Lewis’ concerns, Hokit enters the matchup with confidence and momentum on his side. The undefeated heavyweight owns a perfect 9-0 professional record and has quickly become one of the UFC’s most talked-about personalities.
His combination of aggressive fighting style, outspoken personality, and willingness to engage in wars has made him a fan favorite and one of the breakout stars leading into UFC Freedom 250. Now he faces the biggest challenge of his career against one of the most dangerous knockout artists in UFC history.
For Lewis, Sunday’s fight represents an opportunity to bounce back from a disappointing loss earlier this year.
The longtime heavyweight contender dropped a decision to Waldo Cortes-Acosta in January in a performance that Lewis later attributed to physical limitations caused by injury.
According to Lewis, a back issue significantly affected his movement throughout the contest. “I know the reason why I lost that fight is because I had a back injury,” Lewis said.
“I couldn’t move the whole fight, I know that’s the reason.” The veteran also admitted he entered that fight carrying considerably more weight than usual.
Heavyweight Spotlight at the White House
The matchup serves as one of the featured attractions on UFC Freedom 250, the promotion’s historic event being held on the South Lawn of the White House.
The card has already generated worldwide attention because of its unique setting and star-studded lineup. For Hokit, a victory over Lewis would instantly elevate him into the heavyweight title conversation and further establish him as one of the division’s rising stars. For Lewis, it’s a chance to remind the world that he remains one of the most dangerous men in the sport.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
