Ciryl Gane will defend his heavyweight title against Josh Hokit at UFC 334 on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York. This marks Gane’s first defence since being promoted from interim to undisputed champion earlier this year after Tom Aspinall vacated the belt due to lingering eye injuries from their fight in October 2025.
Gane’s path to the top has been anything but straightforward. The French fighter lost title fights against Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou early in his career but secured interim belts with victories over Derrick Lewis and Alex Pereira during the summer. His elevation to full champion came as a result of Aspinall’s withdrawal, setting up this showdown with Hokit, who has been on a rapid ascent through the heavyweight ranks.
Hokit’s rise has been one of the fastest in UFC history. Since his promotional debut just over a year ago, the American has gone undefeated in five fights. His wins include a memorable bout against Curtis Blaydes that was widely regarded as a Fight of the Year contender, as well as a victory over Lewis at the White House. Now he aims to cap that streak by claiming the heavyweight title.
UFC 334 promises more than just the main event. The co-main event will see women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison take on Amanda Nunes, a matchup that was postponed from January after Harrison suffered a serious neck injury requiring surgery. The two former gymmates have developed a rivalry that adds intensity to this highly anticipated contest.
Other fights on the card include middleweight Caio Borralho facing up-and-coming contender Yousri Belgaroui, welterweight knockout artist Uros Medic battling veteran Kevin Holland, and flyweight newcomer Bilal Hasan going up against Luis Gurule. The event will also feature the retirement fight of Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, who is ending a 16-year MMA career.
Fans can watch UFC 334 through Paramount+ without any additional fee, with subscription plans starting at $8.99 per month or $89.99 per year. The event is expected to deliver a full night of action, with live round-by-round scoring, updated results, and highlights available throughout.
As the fighters prepare to step into the octagon, all eyes will be on Gane and Hokit as they clash for the heavyweight crown in one of the year’s most eagerly awaited bouts.
According to CBS.
