Ilia Topuria and Josh Hokit renew rivalry at UFC Freedom 250

The rivalry between Ilia Topuria and Josh Hokit is set to reignite at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14, when the two meet for the second time in what the promotion has confirmed as a live broadcast on Paramount+ beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

Topuria enters the rematch as arguably the most prominent fighter in the sport right now. Ranked first pound-for-pound and second in the lightweight division, the 29-year-old Spaniard carries a 17-1-0 professional record and trains out of Climent Club. Known as "El Matador," the orthodox fighter stands five-foot-seven with a 69-inch reach and brings consistent offensive output to the cage, averaging 4.81 significant strikes per minute at 48 percent accuracy. He also mixes in a credible grappling game, averaging nearly two takedowns and over one submission attempt per 15 minutes.

Hokit, nicknamed "The Incredible Hok," arrives at this rematch with a perfect 5-0-0 professional record. The 28-year-old has yet to taste defeat as a professional, and a second meeting with a fighter of Topuria's caliber represents the steepest test of his career to date.

Why it matters

• Topuria's pound-for-pound standing means any competitive showing from Hokit would immediately elevate his profile in the lightweight landscape.
• The rematch dynamic adds an extra layer of intrigue, as both men have prior knowledge of each other inside the cage.
• A win for Topuria would further cement his place among the division's elite ahead of any potential title implications at 155 pounds.