Controversial American heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit created a spectacle at the official weigh-in for the UFC Freedom 250 event, held at the White House. The 28-year-old appeared to simulate throwing up, dribbling a sick-coloured liquid from his mouth, and seemingly struggled with his balance as he took to the scales on Saturday morning.
When questioned about his unusual display, Hokit responded, "So what? Maybe I was drinking last night. Who wouldn't be?" He then referenced the daunting challenge of his opponent, Derrick Lewis, stating, "I've got a giant man who wants to knock me out. He has the most knockouts in UFC history." Hokit's actions are consistent with his recent strategy of adopting various personas, including repeatedly mentioning "The Incredible Hoke" during Friday's press conference.
Hokit's bout against veteran fighter Derrick Lewis, 41, was a late addition to the UFC Freedom 250 card. The fight was reportedly requested by US President Donald Trump, who is a known enthusiast of the sport and a close friend of UFC president Dana White. Trump had previously watched Hokit's victory over Curtis Blaydes in April, leading to the pairing with Lewis, who is said to be the President's favourite fighter.
The weigh-in drama follows Hokit's disruptive behaviour at previous press conferences. On Friday, his antics culminated in a personal insult directed at main-event fighter Ilia Topuria, referencing his recent divorce, which prompted Dana White to abruptly end the press conference. Earlier in May, at a launch event for UFC Freedom 250, Hokit was escorted off stage by security after insulting both Topuria and co-main-event fighter Alex Pereira.
The unprecedented UFC Freedom 250 event is set to take place on the South Lawn of the White House on Sunday. Hokit, who weighed in at 231lb, will join other fighters for a ceremonial weigh-in later on Saturday evening at the Ellipse park, providing a final face-off opportunity before the historic fights commence.