Story perspectives

UFC Press Conference Chaos; Hokit Ejected, Topuria-Gaethje, Pereira-Gane Cards Announced

5/9/2026

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Summary

Josh Hokit Ejected

U.S. UFC held a press conference at Newark’s Prudential Center on May 8, 2026, and Josh Hokit was removed after disruptive promos.
The June 14, 2026 White House card will feature Topuria vs. Gaethje for the lightweight title and Pereira vs. Gane for a heavyweight title.
Hokit wore a black robe, sunglasses, an American-flag bandana and gloves while shouting rhymes at Lewis, Pereira and Topuria, prompting Topuria to toss a water bottle and UFC security to escort the fighter out.
White said 85,000 tickets will be sold for screens at Ellipse Park, 4,000 will sit on South Lawn, and President Trump will receive 1,000 tickets.

Summary

Strickland Slams Hokit

Sean Strickland tweeted that Hokit “went way too far” after the fighter referenced attacks on Ilia Topuria’s ex-wife and Michael Chandler’s spouse.
Reddit fans called the promo “corny” and “cringe” while others praised its WWE-style flair.
Dana White said he has mixed feelings but will support Hokit if he continues winning.
Alex Pereira called Hokit “a nobody” and said he will not watch his fights.

History

Historical Context

After the New York Senate banned MMA in 1997, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the 2016 law that legalized the sport, paving the way for UFC 205’s record-breaking $17.7 million gate at Madison Square Garden on Nov 12 2016. The 2026 press conference, hosted by UFC president Dana White and featuring a Trump-signed White House card, shows the sport’s renewed political clout.

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Josh Hokit Ejected

U.S. UFC held a press conference at Newark’s Prudential Center on May 8, 2026, and Josh Hokit was removed after disruptive promos.
The June 14, 2026 White House card will feature Topuria vs. Gaethje for the lightweight title and Pereira vs. Gane for a heavyweight title.
Hokit wore a black robe, sunglasses, an American-flag bandana and gloves while shouting rhymes at Lewis, Pereira and Topuria, prompting Topuria to toss a water bottle and UFC security to escort the fighter out.
White said 85,000 tickets will be sold for screens at Ellipse Park, 4,000 will sit on South Lawn, and President Trump will receive 1,000 tickets.

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