The heavyweight division features a classic clash of styles on June 14, 2026, as the legendary knockout artist Derrick 'The Black Beast' Lewis faces off against the rising wrestling prospect Josh Hokit. This matchup pits the all-time knockout leader against a decorated collegiate wrestler looking to make his mark on the world stage. Lewis, known for his unprecedented one-punch power and ability to finish fights in a split second, remains the ultimate litmus test for any grappling-based prospect. Hokit, bringing a high-level wrestling pedigree and explosive athleticism, seeks to utilize his grappling dominance to neutralize the danger of Lewis. For Lewis, this bout is a chance to defend his ranking against a new breed of athlete. Hokit aims to validate his transition to MMA by implementing a high-pressure wrestling game plan. The tactical battle between Lewis' power and Hokit's control will define the trajectory of this heavyweight encounter.

A high-stakes 3-round heavyweight bout. The likely fight script involves Hokit attempting to secure early takedowns to negate the striking threat, while Lewis will wait for the perfect opportunity to land a fight-ending counter-strike.

Derrick Lewis is a power-striker who prioritizes explosive finishing sequences over technical volume. His style is built on patient distance management and sudden bursts of extreme power. Defensively, he has shown an elite ability to stand back up from bottom positions. Josh Hokit is a wrestling-first athlete who utilizes explosive level changes and heavy top pressure. His offensive style focuses on neutralizing opponents against the cage and securing high-amplitude takedowns. Hokit's striking is developing, but his primary pathway to victory remains his superior grappling. The contrast between Lewis' patient power and Hokit's relentless wrestling pressure will be the defining dynamic of the first round.

Lewis holds a significant experience and size advantage, which he uses to generate his signature power. Hokit possesses superior athletic speed and conditioning, which are crucial for maintaining a high wrestling pace over three rounds.

Lewis lands 2.55 significant strikes per minute but carries game-changing power in every exchange. Hokit's striking volume is lower, as he uses it primarily as a setup for his takedown entries. Defensive movement and head position are vital for Hokit to avoid the heavy counters of Lewis.

Hokit averages 4.50 takedowns per 15 minutes, reflecting his collegiate background. Lewis' takedown defense sits at 52%, but his ability to return to his feet is legendary. Control time share is projected to favor Hokit heavily if he can navigate the initial striking danger.

Derrick Lewis: W L W L LJosh Hokit: W W W W W

Derrick Lewis holds the record for most knockouts in UFC history.Josh Hokit maintains a 100% success rate when securing at least three takedowns in a round.Lewis' finish rate in victories is 95%, with the majority coming via KO/TKO.Hokit's control time share averages over 60% in his professional appearances.

Themes include Hokit's chain wrestling and Lewis' counter-striking. Cage pressure will be vital for Hokit to slow Lewis down and limit his space to throw powerful strikes.

Hokit has a superior stamina profile for a high-pace wrestling match. Lewis' momentum is highest in the explosive opening moments of each round, making the mid-round transitions critical for Hokit's safety.

The volatility is extreme. High early KO risk for Hokit and moderate late TKO risk for Lewis if he becomes fatigued under the heavy wrestling pressure of the prospect.

Significant Strikes Landed: 2.55 vs 1.85Takedowns per 15m: 0.55 vs 4.50Takedown Defense: 52% vs 70%Control Time Share: 30% vs 65%

Analytical models favor Josh Hokit via unanimous decision, predicated on his ability to control the fight on the ground. However, a Lewis KO in any round remains a constant and high-probability threat. Judges' score tendencies favor Hokit's grappling control in a full 15-minute contest.

Josh Hokit's elite wrestling and superior conditioning provide a strategic path to victory via control. However, Derrick Lewis' historic power makes him a dangerous adversary until the final bell. The key takeaway is whether Hokit can safely bridge the distance to implement his grappling dominance.