Josh Hokit has built a reputation for making provocative comments, but his outspoken personality has not won him any favors with longtime UFC announcer Bruce Buffer. During a recent live broadcast with influencer N3on, Buffer shared his reservations about the heavyweight. He made it clear that while he respects Hokit’s ability to compete, he is not a fan of what he says outside the cage.
“Then you have a guy like Josh Hokit, the heavyweight. He can brawl, but I don’t like what he talks about. I think he’s disrespectful. And I’m sorry, Josh, if you’re watching, it’s just the way it is. But this is his thing. That’s his game. It’s not my style,” Buffer said.
Buffer was careful to distinguish his opinion of Hokit’s personality from his assessment of him as a fighter. He acknowledged that Hokit can hold his own in the Octagon, but took issue with the way he conducts himself publicly.
For Buffer, whose job is to introduce athletes and build excitement around their walkouts, that distinction matters. He might not agree with everything an athlete says, but that does not mean he can bring those personal feelings into the introductions.
N3on then asked whether Buffer found himself thinking negatively about Hokit when it was time to announce him.
“So when you’re introducing Josh, you’re like, God[ ] it,” N3on said.
Buffer pushed back on that characterization, explaining that his approach remains professional even when he disapproves of a fighter’s behavior.
“I’ll give him his introduction. No, no, not quite like that. It’s like show some class. That’s just the way I am,” Buffer said.
Buffer also identified a specific reason for his frustration with Hokit, pointing to the heavyweight’s remarks about Michelle Obama following his appearance at the White House.
“Yeah, I feel you. The things he said at the White House, I’m sorry. I didn’t appreciate that,” Buffer said.
Despite his criticism, Buffer emphasized that every athlete receives his full effort when stepping into the Octagon. His responsibility he explained is to honor the sacrifices athletes make to compete, regardless of whether he personally agrees with them.
“Anyway, not to put Josh down, but when I introduced him, you step in that octagon, man or woman, you’re putting your blood, sweat, and life in line on your tears on the floor. I’m there to enhance that moment for you. I give you my all,” Buffer said.
