UFC adds Josh Hokit to White House card at Donald Trump’s request as president watches instant classic
Hokit outlasted Curtis Blaydes in a wild heavyweight bout, as Trump watched from ringside in Miami
The UFC has added another fight to its upcoming White House event at the request of Donald Trump , who was won over by one particular fighter on Saturday. US president Trump sat ringside for UFC 327 at Miami’s Kaseya Center , where he has attended numerous UFC events in recent years, and it was there that Josh Hokit outlasted Curtis Blaydes in an instant classic. Hokit’s WWE-style self-presentation drew much attention during fight week, proving divisive for fans, but the American delivered in the cage as he secured a points win over compatriot Blaydes.
Donald Trump (right) speaking with UFC boss Dana White at ringside (AFP via Getty Images) The fight was non-stop action for 15 minutes, with both men bloodied and badly hurt on numerous occasions. Still, neither fighter would go down, with fans and commentators lauding the bout as one of the best that the heavyweight division has ever produced. Even ex-heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, on commentary duties, said as much with a disbelieving laugh.
It was Hokit’s hand that was raised, before he delivered a rhyming post-fight speech when interviewed by Joe Rogan. And Hokit’s performance has earned him a spot on the White House card on 14 June , as he takes on former title challenger Derrick Lewis – one of Mr Trump’s favourite fighters. UFC president Dana White announced the news in a social-media video during UFC 327, where he sat next to his close friend Mr Trump .
“I said, ‘Derrick, the president just asked me why you’re not on the card. Do you wanna fight on the White house card? ’ And he goes: ‘Of course I do.