Ciryl Gane before UFC 334: Josh Hokit acts like a clown, but ‘he is really smart’

Ciryl Gane won’t be fooled by Josh Hokit’s antics in the buildup to UFC 334.

Gane (14-2 MMA, 11-2 UFC) defends his heavyweight title against Hokit (10-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC) in Saturday’s main event (Paramount+) at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Hokit acknowledges that his persona led to a big push towards the title after defeating Curtis Blaydes and former title challenger Derrick Lewis. However, despite Hokit’s schtick, Gane isn’t underestimating him.

“Josh won the fight against Derrick Lewis; he did well,” Gane said on “UFC Countdown.” “I’m not a big fan of his approach. I know this guy likes to talk, and other people like the people who talk. For Josh Hokit, he has an opportunity to be an undisputed champion. That’s because he knows how to do some entertainment. He is smart. He is really smart. He pretends he’s a clown, he’s stupid, but he’s not. He’s really not. I’m pretty sure we’re going to do a really great fight for the fans, and I’m going to win.”

Gane is a moderate favorite to retain his title and hand Hokit his first-career loss. The 36-year-old finished Alex Pereira to claim the interim heavyweight title, but was later promoted to undisputed champ after Tom Aspinall vacated his belt due to ongoing complications with his eyes.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Ciryl Gane before UFC 334: Josh Hokit acts like a clown, but ‘he is really smart’