Jon Jones Offers Prediction for Ciryl Gane vs. Josh Hokit at UFC 334

UFC legend Jon Jones has shared his thoughts on the heavyweight title fight set for UFC 334, where current champion Ciryl Gane will face challenger Josh Hokit. The event is scheduled for November 14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Gane recently became the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion after Tom Aspinall vacated the belt due to an eye injury. He will defend his title against Hokit, an undefeated former NFL player who also trains with Jones at Jackson Wink MMA Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Jones' Take on the Heavyweight Clash

Speaking with The Schmo, Jones weighed in on the matchup between his teammate and the champion. He praised Hokit's current form and coaching, noting his strong wrestling background.

"Josh looks great right now. He's doing a great job, obviously coached by some of the best in the world. I've always supported wrestlers and backed wrestlers. It's interesting for me because I have Gable (Steveson), and there are words being spoken back-and-forth. It's awkward, but deep down, behind Gable, I'm supporting all the guys," Jones said.

Jones expressed goodwill toward everyone involved and acknowledged the pride in seeing Ciryl Gane succeed as well.

"I want to see everyone live healthy lifestyles and do great things in business and family, so I'm really rooting for everybody. I'd be lying if I didn't say that the more people Ciryl Gane beats, it shows the specialness of our family and team. So my prediction is that I believe Hokit very well could win, but I'd be lying if I didn't say it makes our brand look great when Ciryl Gane beats people. May the best man win."

Comments on UFC 335's Upcoming Heavyweight Fight

Jones also commented on the heavyweight bout booked for UFC 335 between former two-division champion Alex Pereira and knockout artist Sergei Pavlovich, though he refrained from making a clear prediction.

"The Alex that showed up at the last fight was hesitant and maybe second-guessing himself, so I don't really know. I thought Pereira would put on a greater challenge against Ciryl Gane, so it's hard to say how Sergei and Alex will shake out. But I'll be watching, that's for sure, and again, I hate to give you cliché answers, but may the best man win," Jones remarked.

UFC 335 is set for December 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Its main event features a five-round UFC BMF title fight between champion Charles Oliveira and fan favorite Diego Lopes.

Heavyweight Division Outlook

The winner of Pereira vs. Pavlovich is expected to face the victor of Gane vs. Hokit sometime in 2027. The heavyweight division has finally regained momentum after being stalled due to Aspinall's injury, which prevented title defenses for over a year. Aspinall could return for an immediate title shot next year once cleared to compete again.