UFC 324: Josh Hokit Outpaces and Wears Down Denzel Freeman Early
Josh Hokit faced off against Denzel Freeman in an exciting heavyweight matchup at UFC 324. This event marked a significant milestone as it was the first UFC card to stream on Paramount+. The fight took place in Las Vegas and showcased both fighters’ skills and determination.
Fight Overview: Hokit vs. Freeman
Right from the beginning of the first round, Hokit demonstrated his aggressive fighting style. He charged across the cage, executing a swift takedown on Freeman. Although Freeman attempted to recover, Hokit maintained control and focused on dominating the bout.
Round by Round Breakdown
- Round 1: Hokit quickly took the initiative, slamming Freeman to the ground and preventing his escape. Despite Freeman’s efforts to return to a standing position, Hokit’s striking volume and speed put pressure on his opponent.
- After effective striking exchanges, Hokit landed a knee to Freeman’s body, further debilitating him. The relentless pace left Freeman visibly exhausted and unsteady on his feet.
- In the final moments, Hokit landed a kick that knocked Freeman off balance. The fight was stopped by referee Mark Smith just one second before the end of the round due to Freeman’s precarious condition.
Post-Fight Highlights
With this victory, Josh Hokit improved his professional MMA record to 8-0, including a 2-0 record in the UFC. Following the fight, Hokit called out fellow fighter Waldo Cortes-Acosta and made headlines with comments during his post-fight interview.
Hokit’s performance earned him his second UFC finish bonus, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level. The fight with Freeman will go down as a memorable moment in UFC history, particularly for its pace and intensity.
Official Result
Josh Hokit def. Denzel Freeman by TKO, Round 1, 4:59