Josh Hokit responded bluntly to a callout from Sergei Pavlovich, dismissing both Pavlovich and the prospect of fighting in China.
Josh Hokit shot back at Sergei Pavlovich on June 3, 2026, dismissing the Russian heavyweight's callout and making clear he has no interest in traveling to China for the fight.
Pavlovich, ranked third in the UFC heavyweight division, enters the exchange as one of the most dangerous strikers in the weight class. The 34-year-old from Russia trains out of Eagles MMA and brings a southpaw stance, a six-foot-three frame, and an 84-inch reach to every matchup. He lands 4.43 significant strikes per minute at 44 percent accuracy and carries a 20-3-0 professional record, numbers that have made him a consistent threat near the top of the division.
Hokit, known as "The Incredible Hok," is undefeated at 5-0-0 and at 28 years old is still building his professional profile. The callout from a ranked heavyweight is a notable moment for a fighter at his stage, and his willingness to fire back publicly signals he is not shy about stepping into that spotlight.
Why it matters
- Pavlovich is a top-three heavyweight, so any confirmed matchup would represent a significant step up for the unbeaten Hokit.
- Hokit's flat rejection of a China-based bout could complicate whether this fight progresses to a formal negotiation.
- The stylistic contrast is sharp — Pavlovich is a high-volume southpaw striker with elite reach, while Hokit's 5-0 record leaves his tendencies less publicly established.
- Heavyweight callouts that gain public traction often move quickly on the matchmaking table, keeping both men in the conversation for upcoming cards.
