Cain Velasquez Expects Josh Hokit to Defeat Ciryl Gane at UFC 334

Former champion Cain Velasquez expects challenger Josh Hokit to defeat heavyweight titleholder Ciryl Gane at UFC 334 in New York City, New York, as MMAFighting.com reported.

The champion Gane makes his first UFC heavyweight title defense when he takes on the challenger Hokit this Saturday at Madison Square Garden. Sportsbooks list Gane as a -185 favorite, while Hokit sits as a +160 underdog for the main event.

Speaking to MMAFighting.com, Velasquez shared his prediction for the matchup. “I think Josh is gonna surprise people on (Saturday). He’s complete, you know? I think way, way more complete than Gane is,” Velasquez told MMAFighting.com.

Velasquez pointed to Hokit’s wrestling and striking abilities under pressure as key factors.

“So I think Hokit, yeah, is going to surprise a lot of people with the great wrestling, great hands, as you’ve seen. When the time comes to fight in a big stage, that’s the hardest part where everybody’s watching. Where you got to go out and do it on this day in this moment. He’s proven that. I see him winning this fight,” Velasquez said to MMAFighting.com.

During his own career, Velasquez avoided trash talk and let his performances speak for themselves. He said that Hokit takes a different approach by generating verbal tension ahead of fights.

“So Hokit, as far as his fighting ability, he’s definitely proven himself, that he’s well-renowned mixed martial artist. He deserves what he’s getting as far as a title shot, you know? He’s fought those guys to get there. And he’s also taking the route, somewhat of a Conor McGregor, to speak in a way that creates tension,” Velasquez told MMAFighting.com.

Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.