Josh Hokit defeats Curtis Blaydes in UFC 327 heavyweight thriller

Fighters and fans hail the bout as one of the best heavyweight fights in UFC history

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:56am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting the intense physical action and grappling of a heavyweight MMA fight, with muscular forms and limbs overlapping in a cubist, geometric style.The intense, back-and-forth battle between rising heavyweight star Josh Hokit and veteran contender Curtis Blaydes is captured in a cubist, geometric painting that reflects the raw power and drama of their UFC 327 clash.Today in Miami

In a highly anticipated UFC 327 main event, undefeated heavyweight prospect Josh Hokit defeated perennial contender Curtis Blaydes via unanimous decision in a thrilling back-and-forth battle that has been widely praised as an all-time classic fight.

Why it matters

Hokit's victory over the more experienced Blaydes establishes him as a legitimate title contender in the UFC heavyweight division, while the fight itself is being celebrated as one of the greatest heavyweight matchups in the promotion's history, generating significant buzz and excitement among fighters and fans alike.

The details

Hokit (9-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) used his superior striking and grappling skills to outpoint the favored Blaydes (19-6 MMA, 14-6 UFC) over the course of three grueling rounds. The fight featured numerous momentum shifts, heavy exchanges, and dramatic moments that had the crowd at the Kaseya Center in Miami on the edge of their seats.

  • The fight took place at UFC 327 on April 12, 2026 in Miami, Florida.

The players

Josh Hokit

An undefeated heavyweight prospect with a 9-0 professional MMA record, including 3 wins in the UFC.

Curtis Blaydes

A perennial heavyweight contender in the UFC with a 19-6 record, including 14 wins in the promotion.

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What they’re saying

“That was the best heavyweight fight I've ever seen. Hokit and Blaydes left it all in the Octagon tonight.”

— Daniel Cormier, UFC Analyst

“Wow, just wow. Hokit proved he's the real deal with that performance. That fight was insane!”

— Stipe Miocic, Former UFC Heavyweight Champion

What’s next

With the victory, Josh Hokit is expected to receive a top-5 heavyweight ranking and could potentially earn a title shot in his next fight.

The takeaway

The epic battle between Josh Hokit and Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327 has instantly become one of the most celebrated heavyweight fights in UFC history, showcasing the incredible talent and heart of both men and further elevating the profile of the fast-rising Hokit as a legitimate title contender in the division.