At the UFC 328 media day in New Jersey, Josh Hockit confronted Alex Pereira in an unusual manner. Hockit stopped in front of the Brazilian champion and stared at him for approximately one minute without speaking. After Hockit walked away, Pereira simply commented that Hockit is "crazy," according to journalist Robbie Fox. Hockit has been calling out Pereira since his last fight. The incident raises questions about whether Pereira will respond to Hockit's provocations at the upcoming press conference, with the challenger expected to continue his verbal challenges.
Alex Pereira and Josh Hockit shared a tense moment at the UFC 328 media day in New Jersey on Thursday, when Hockit approached the light heavyweight champion and stared him down in silence for roughly a minute before walking away without a word. Pereira's only response, as reported by journalist Robbie Fox, was a brief remark that Hockit is "crazy."
Pereira, 38, carries a 13-4-0 record and holds the light heavyweight title heading into UFC 328. The Brazilian fighter out of Teixeira MMA and Fitness stands six-foot-four with a 79-inch reach and has been one of the division's most dangerous strikers, landing 5.16 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 62 percent striking accuracy.
Hockit has been publicly calling out Pereira since his last outing, and Thursday's silent confrontation appears to be an escalation of that campaign. With the UFC 328 press conference still ahead of fight night on May 9, Hockit is expected to press his verbal challenge further in a more formal setting.
Why it matters
- Pereira's brief "crazy" remark suggests he is not rattled, but the exchange keeps the possibility of a future matchup in the spotlight.
- Hockit's staredown tactic, uncommon in its silence, signals he is willing to pursue unconventional methods to draw a response from the champion.
- Any escalation at the press conference could push UFC matchmakers to take Hockit's callout more seriously heading into the event.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
