Topuria intervenes for Pereira as Hokit removed from press conference

Ilia Topuria stepped in to defend light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira during a tense press conference moment at UFC 328 media day on May 8, an incident that ended with Josh Hokit being removed from the event.

Topuria, the pound-for-pound number-one ranked fighter in the world, currently competes at lightweight and carries a 17-1 record. The 29-year-old from Spain trains out of Climent Club and is ranked second in the lightweight division. Known for his sharp offensive output, he lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute at 48 percent accuracy, and also mixes in nearly two takedowns per 15 minutes.

Pereira, the reigning light heavyweight champion, holds a 13-4 record and at 38 years old remains one of the most feared strikers in the sport. The Brazilian, who stands six-foot-four with a 79-inch reach, lands 5.16 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 62 percent accuracy — among the highest marks in his division.

Hokit, an undefeated prospect at 5-0, was at the center of the incident. The 28-year-old, nicknamed "The Incredible Hok," had not yet competed at the UFC level heading into the event.

Why it matters

• Topuria inserting himself into the moment underscores his growing profile and willingness to assert himself beyond his own division
• Pereira's standing as champion made the incident a focal point of UFC 328 media obligations
• The removal of Hokit ahead of UFC 328 adds an unusual backdrop to the event's pre-fight narrative

Specific details about what triggered the confrontation or the exact nature of Hokit's conduct remain limited, but the episode drew significant attention on the eve of the card.