Preview: UFC 324 Prelims

Heavyweights

Josh Hokit (7-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Denzel Freeman (7-1, 1-0 UFC)

BETTING ODDS: Hokit (-245), Freeman (+200)

Hokit’s mouth has gotten him the most attention so far—positively and negatively—but he’s a heavyweight prospect worth watching based on his performances to date. A former collegiate wrestling standout who got some NFL looks as a fullback, Hokit has consistently been able to run through his competition thanks to his athleticism and wrestling skills. He can rush in with offense and have his opponents on their back almost immediately out of the gates. In the case of his UFC debut against Max Gimenis in November, “The Incredible Hok” didn’t even need things to get that far, as he had a massive speed advantage and knocked the Brazilian out in under a minute. Next up: Hokit takes on Freeman, who also had a successful UFC debut in December.

Another former collegiate wrestler, Freeman is solid if not particularly dynamic for a heavyweight. He had a few quick finishes earlier in his career but is much likelier to slowly outlast his opponent and eventually work towards a stoppage on the ground. Unlike Hokit, Freeman’s UFC debut wasn’t particularly impressive, as he outpointed Marek Bujlo in a lackluster affair. Still, the steadiness of Freeman’s game does mean he should at least be able to separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to heavyweight hopefuls. Freeman’s wrestling background makes this mildly interesting, but Hokit looks capable of overpowering him in short order. The pick is Hokit via first-round stoppage.

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