Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill has thrown his hat into the Josh Hokit fight sweepstakes following a significant career announcement.
Jamahal Hill has suffered three consecutive defeats since claiming the UFC light heavyweight championship by overcoming Glover Teixeira at UFC 283. Hill’s last bout was a unanimous decision loss to Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC Baku last summer, and while he recently hinted at a ‘new passion’ for competing, there has been silence regarding matchmaking.
In a time of instability within the light heavyweight division, amidst Carlos Ulberg’s ongoing recovery from injury, Hill could potentially return to title contention with one or two victories on his record. Concurrently, the heavyweight division is also in need of fresh faces, particularly after Alex Pereira’s astonishing defeat at UFC Freedom 250.
As Hill orchestrates his return, he is enacting a substantial professional change.
Jamahal Hill Targets Josh Hokit for Initial UFC Heavyweight Bout
On a recent installment of his What You Think? podcast, Hill revealed his intention to transition to the heavyweight category and challenged the polarizing figure Josh Hokit for his inaugural fight.
“I’m making it public now – I’m moving to heavyweight!” Hill declared.
“My official transition is to heavyweight; this is a goal I’ve pursued over the past several months. I’ve been gaining the required mass, muscle, and all that is needed to ascend. Wouldn’t it be more impactful if I returned and secured the heavyweight championship? Being a double champion surpasses being a two-time champion.”
“Regarding Josh Hokit, he’s the opponent I desire!” Hill proceeded. “That is precisely the matchup I envision for my first fight!”
Hokit extended his undefeated streak in the Octagon with a devastating stoppage of Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250 this past Sunday. Notwithstanding Hill’s challenge, Hokit appears to be concentrating on a potential heavyweight confrontation with Pereira, should the ex-two-division champion decide to re-enter that weight class.
What are your expectations for Jamahal Hill’s performance in the heavyweight division? Share your thoughts below!
