Josh Hokit storms into top 5 of UFC heavyweight rankings after chaotic Curtis Blaydes win

UFC heavyweight newcomer Josh Hokit has made a significant impact, breaking into the top 5 of the divisional rankings following his thrilling victory over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327.

Last weekend, Josh Hokit truly announced his arrival on the big stage. Under the bright lights in Miami, he engaged in a back-and-forth slugfest with one of the UFC's elite heavyweights, Curtis Blaydes. Despite facing considerable challenges, Hokit secured a decisive victory via decision, immediately establishing himself as a contender.

While there are other formidable contenders in the heavyweight division, Josh Hokit is slated for another major test at UFC Freedom 250 when he faces Derrick Lewis, renowned as one of the most lethal knockout artists in mixed martial arts history.

According to the official UFC.com rankings, Hokit's aforementioned win has earned him a prominent spot in the heavyweight standings.

Josh Hokit appears in top 5 of UFC heavyweight rankings

Current UFC Heavyweight Rankings:

• Champion: Tom Aspinall
• 1 - Ciryl Gane
• 2 - Alexander Volkov
• 3 - Sergei Pavlovich
• 4 - Waldo Cortes Acosta
• 5 - Josh Hokit (Previously Unranked)
• 6 - Serghei Spivac
• 6 - Curtis Blaydes (dropped 1 spot)
• 8 - Rizvan Kuniev (dropped 1 spot)
• 9 - Derrick Lewis (dropped 1 spot)
• 10 - Ante Delija (dropped 1 spot)
• 11 - Tyrell Fortune (dropped 1 spot)
• 12 - Marcin Tybura (dropped 1 spot)
• 13 - Tallison Teixeira (dropped 1 spot)
• 14 - Mick Parkin
• 15 - Shamil Gaziev (dropped 2 spots)

At just 28 years old, Hokit is remarkably young for the heavyweight division. His speed is exceptional, rivaling that of a select few heavyweights in recent memory, including the current champion, Tom Aspinall.

While his fighting style might not appeal to everyone, a significant victory at a major event could propel him into superstardom. The unpredictable nature of these powerful strikers makes for an exciting narrative as his career unfolds.

For Blaydes, this outcome necessitates a return to the drawing board to identify areas for improvement within the constantly evolving heavyweight landscape.