Poirier Sees Hokit as Next Big UFC Star After Statement Win Over Blaydes

Josh Hokit talked a massive game all fight week. When the cage door closed, he backed every word up.

The undefeated UFC prospect delivered exactly the kind of statement performance that transforms prospects into stars, outlasting veteran Curtis Blaydes in an absolute war on the main card at UFC 327 in Miami. The victory earned Hokit $200,000 in performance bonuses and immediately caught the attention of one of the sports most decorated veterans.

Dustin Poirier, the legendary lightweight who has seen it all inside the octagon, offered high praise on the About Last Fight podcast, drawing a direct comparison to some of the biggest names in UFC history. When stars start to align, you have seen it in Conor McGregor when you talk the talk and you walk the walk, Poirier said. You have seen it in Sean OMalley. You have seen it in Chael Sonnen. We have seen it time and time again where guys talk the talk and walk the walk, and Hokit just did it this week.

Hokit spent the build-up to UFC 327 making noise across the division. He taunted top-ranked heavyweight Blaydes, but did not stop there, taking shots at headliners Carlos Ulberg and Jiri Prochazka as well. The bravado drew mixed reactions from fans and media, with many questioning whether the newcomer was biting off more than he could chew against established veterans.

Those doubts disappeared inside the Kaseya Center. Hokit proved he belonged, weathering Blaydes attacks and finding his own success in a fight that had fans on their feet. When it was over, he walked away with his hand raised, his record intact, and his bank account substantially heavier.

The UFC clearly believes the hype is warranted. Hokit has already been booked for his next assignment: a clash with Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14 at the White House. The promotion's willingness to fast-track him into a high-profile bout reflects the momentum building around the 9-0 fighter, now 3-0 inside the octagon.

Good things happen when you back up what you say, Poirier added. You become a star.

For a sport built on charisma as much as competition, Hokit has checked both boxes. The next test comes in June — and the UFC world will be watching to see if the hype train keeps rolling.