Alex Pereira vs. Josh Hokit being discussed by UFC
The former two-division champion could face the rising heavyweight contender in his next fight after losing to Ciryl Gane.
Alex Pereira could have a new opponent lined up for his return to the UFC heavyweight division. According to journalist Ariel Helwani, the promotion is "definitely" discussing a matchup between Pereira and Josh Hokit. The Brazilian is coming off a TKO loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250, while Hokit has quickly established himself as one of the division's fastest-rising contenders.
Josh Hokit Emerges as Potential Next Opponent
Undefeated in his professional MMA career, Hokit has won four fights since joining the UFC, including victories over Curtis Blaydes and Derrick Lewis. The American heavyweight has also been vocal about wanting to face Pereira, creating a storyline that could make the matchup particularly appealing to the promotion.
After Pereira's coach, Glover Teixeira, supported the idea of Poatan facing Hokit, Helwani said that the UFC is considering the matchup.
"What I can tell you after digging around a little bit is that is definitely something that is being discussed," Helwani said during a recent episode of The Ariel Helwani Show. "Done? No. Signed? No. Sealed? No. Delivered? No. But it is definitely out there, it is definitely a thought, and definitely a direction being explored. So let's see. That would be wild. Who would have thought at the beginning of this year, Josh Hokit vs. Alex Pereira, if it comes to fruition. It is definitely a thing. Definitely a thing that is being discussed and explored at the moment."
Meanwhile, Pereira is looking to bounce back after losing to Gane in his heavyweight debut and eventually return to the title picture. His coach, Teixeira, recently said he would like to see Poatan face Hokit next, arguing that a win over the unbeaten contender could help the former two-division champion get back on track.
Alex Pereira's Next Move Remains Unclear
Although a fight against Hokit is being discussed, there is no official announcement or date for Pereira's return yet. Hokit has also suggested fighting interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane first before facing Pereira in January 2027.
For now, Pereira vs. Hokit remains a possibility rather than a done deal, but the matchup would give the former champion an intriguing opportunity to rebuild his momentum at heavyweight.
