UFC heavyweight contender Waldo Cortes-Acosta has opened up about a recent personal clash with fellow fighter Josh Hokit. Speaking at the media day for the upcoming UFC 328 event, Cortes-Acosta detailed an incident that stemmed from comments Hokit made about him and his family earlier this year.
The tension originated at UFC 324 in January, where Hokit reportedly directed personal insults toward Cortes-Acosta, including calling him a 'bad father.' These remarks, which also targeted his family and children, did not sit well with the heavyweight, who felt the comments crossed a line beyond typical pre-fight trash talk.
Cortes-Acosta later encountered Hokit at the UFC Apex facility. He described walking into the cage area, making direct eye contact, and delivering a clear message. He told Hokit that he was 'worthless' and that they would inevitably settle their differences inside the Octagon someday.
The confrontation took another turn when the two met again near an elevator. According to Cortes-Acosta, Hokit attempted to apologize, claiming his earlier remarks were merely promotional tactics designed to generate headlines and potential fight revenue. Cortes-Acosta did not accept the apology, instead labeling Hokit a 'damn idiot' and a 'coward' for his approach.
This personal animosity adds a layer of narrative to the heavyweight division. Cortes-Acosta is currently focused on his immediate challenge: a bout against the experienced Alexander Volkov at UFC 328. The event is scheduled to take place in Newark, New Jersey.
A victory over Volkov would be significant for Cortes-Acosta's career trajectory. He has publicly stated that a win would position him for a potential title eliminator, with his sights set on a future matchup against interim champion Tom Aspinall.
The situation highlights how personal grievances can simmer in the high-stakes world of mixed martial arts, sometimes extending beyond the promotional hype that often accompanies big fights.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.