Former Wrestler Josh Hokit Admits Testing Himself Against Derrick Lewis
By 813 Staff
Breaking from the sidelines: Former Wrestler Josh Hokit Admits Testing Himself Against Derrick Lewis, according to Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) (on June 23, 2026).
Source: https://x.com/Home_of_Fight/status/2069507764947144928
Josh Hokit stepped into the gym earlier this week with a specific question on his mind, and now the mixed martial arts world is buzzing about what it might mean for his future in the heavyweight division. League sources confirm Hokit—the former Fresno State wrestling standout who transitioned to MMA and has been quietly building a name on the regional circuit—told those close to him that he wanted to see if veteran knockout artist Derrick Lewis could handle his grinding wrestling pace. The comment, first caught by Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight), has sparked renewed chatter about a potential matchup that feels like a natural crossroads for both fighters.
The timeline here matters. Hokit is coming off a submission win in late May, and his camp has been pushing for a step up in competition. The front office has been quietly monitoring Lewis’s recent slide—four losses in his last six outings—and those close to the situation say they’re weighing whether the 41-year-old “Black Beast” still carries enough drawing power for a developmental fighter like Hokit to gain real exposure. Hokit’s wrestling-heavy style could be a nightmare for Lewis, who has always relied on his one-punch power but has struggled when taken to the mat by persistent grapplers.
Why this matters for the division: heavyweight has been cycling through contenders faster than ever, and a Hokit-Lewis bout would test whether Hokit’s college accolades can translate against a proven name. Lewis remains a fan favorite, but his recent performances have raised questions about how much he has left. If Hokit can grind him down and get a win, it fast-tracks him into the top-15 conversation. If Lewis lands that right hand, it resets Hokit’s timeline by at least a year.
What happens next remains uncertain. The promotion hasn’t announced any plans beyond the summer schedule, but sources indicate the front office is reviewing potential matchups for a fall card. Hokit’s camp has expressed willingness to take the fight, and Lewis has not publicly declined. Until paperwork’s signed, this stays in the rumor mill. But the fact that Hokit took the time to speak on it publicly tells you he’s aiming for more than just another regional headliner.
Source: https://x.com/Home_of_Fight/status/2069507764947144928
