Josh Hokit has signed a multi-fight contract with Bellator, Sports Illustrated has learned.
The 25-year-old Hokit will compete in the heavyweight division. A two-time collegiate All-American, Hokit excelled in wrestling and football at Fresno State before a cup of coffee in the NFL as part of the 49ers practice squad.
“This is the next chapter of my life,” says Hokit, whose brother, Isaiah, also fights for Bellator. “[Bellator CEO] Scott Coker is willing to give me a chance. It feels like the right fit, and I’m ready to go.”
While Hokit could potentially compete at light heavyweight or middleweight, the heavyweight division is full of opportunity. Currently splitting time training in Vegas at Xtreme Couture, as well as Dewey Cooper’s gym and Jackson Wink with his brother, Hokit’s debut is likely to occur in August.
“I have that warrior spirit,” says Hokit. “There’s no better way to exercise that than fighting in Bellator.”
Justin Barrasso can be reached at JBarrasso@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @JustinBarrasso
