Alex Pereira has suggested that UFC rival Josh Hokit could be removed from the promotion following this weekend's White House event. The former two-division champion is moving up to heavyweight on Sunday night to face Ciryl Gane for the interim 265-pound title, with the winner expected to challenge undisputed champion Tom Aspinall later this year.
Verbal Battle Intensifies
Rather than focusing solely on Gane, Pereira has been drawn into a verbal war with Hokit. During the launch press conference for the White House showcase in May, Hokit nearly clashed with both Ilia Topuria and Pereira. The undefeated American was eventually removed from the stage. He is scheduled to fight veteran Derrick Lewis on the same card.
Hokit has repeatedly called out Pereira, saying, "It's inevitable. We're going to fight one day. I know he knows it. Alex Pereira and his BBL can go to Hell. I'm the lion, he's the weak gazelle." Pereira initially tried to ignore the noise but recently addressed the situation.
Pereira's Bombshell
Speaking through a translator, Pereira said, "I've just heard a thing or two—I don't even know if he's going to be a part of this organisation going forward. He's going to fight, but I don't know, I've heard some things here or there." He added that Hokit crossed a line by insulting his mother, stating, "In Brazil, on the street code, you never talk about the mother. I think he did cross the line."
Despite the distractions, Pereira remains focused on his heavyweight debut. The winner of Pereira vs. Gane will be in prime position for a title shot against Aspinall later this year.
