Josh Hokit posted an AI-generated video on social media showing himself knocking out Ilia Topuria. Merab Dvalishvili quickly came to Topuria's defense in the comments under the video. Dvalishvili told Hokit to maintain the same attitude when he meets Ilia in real life, adding that AI videos won't help him. The post notes that Hokit is effectively promoting himself in the media through this stunt. Some reactions praised Hokit's media savvy while others appreciated Dvalishvili's defense of his teammate.
Josh Hokit stirred up social media chatter on May 21 when the unbeaten prospect posted an AI-generated video depicting himself knocking out Ilia Topuria, drawing a swift and pointed response from bantamweight contender Merab Dvalishvili.
Hokit, 28, carries a perfect 5-0 professional record and has been working to raise his profile. The AI-generated clip drew a mixed reaction online, with some observers crediting the move as a sharp piece of self-promotion while others took issue with the target he chose.
The target was no minor figure. Topuria, 29, fighting out of Spain, currently sits at number two in the lightweight division and holds the number one spot in the pound-for-pound rankings. Known as "El Matador," he owns a 17-1 professional record and lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute at 48 percent accuracy, making him one of the most dangerous finishers in the sport today.
Dvalishvili, nicknamed "The Machine," wasted little time defending his teammate in the comments. The Georgian, who holds a 21-5 record and ranks first in the bantamweight division while sitting second pound-for-pound, told Hokit to maintain the same energy when he meets Topuria in person. He also made clear that an AI video would do nothing to prepare him for the real thing. At 35, Dvalishvili remains one of the most relentless wrestlers in mixed martial arts, averaging a remarkable 6.4 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Topuria is a pound-for-pound number one and a legitimate star, making him a high-visibility target for an emerging fighter seeking attention
- Dvalishvili's public defense underlines the loyalty and visibility of Topuria's inner circle
- Hokit gains name recognition regardless of the response, illustrating how social media stunts function as promotional tools for fighters outside the spotlight
