UFC heavyweight division matchup discussions

Following Alex Pereira’s knockout loss to Ciryl Gane, discussions have emerged regarding his next move in the UFC heavyweight division. Glover Teixeira suggested that Josh Hottick would be an ideal opponent for Pereira to facilitate a return to title contention, citing existing tensions between the two fighters. Josh Hokit has since outlined specific conditions for a potential matchup, expressing interest in fighting for the BMF title. Hokit criticized the UFC for perceived preferential treatment of Pereira and proposed a timeline that includes a fight against Ciryl Gane at Madison Square Garden before facing Pereira in Las Vegas in January 2027. He emphasized a desire to provide a high-action fight, contrasting his style with fighters he claims rely too heavily on grappling without inflicting damage. Adding to the division's volatility, undefeated contender Josh Hottich has called for Tom Aspinall to be stripped of the heavyweight title, arguing the division requires an active champion rather than one sidelined by injuries. Currently ranked number four, Hottich expressed interest in fighting interim champion Ciryl Gane in 2026. Regarding Pereira, Hottich noted that while he does not avoid the Brazilian, he believes Pereira should first rebuild his standing following his loss to Gane. Hottich’s recent momentum follows a TKO victory over Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250. In August 2026, Hokit intensified his criticism of the division, demanding that Tom Aspinall be stripped of his championship status. This demand follows Aspinall’s delayed return to competition due to bilateral traumatic Brown’s syndrome, an eye injury sustained from eye pokes during a no-contest title fight against Ciryl Gane in October 2025.