Josh Hokit fires back at Sean Strickland over gimmick criticism: “You’re just mad my WWE skit has better ratings”

Josh Hokit has a response amid Sean Strickland’s recent criticism.

Strickland is known for having an erratic personality, but he insists it’s all authentic. Hokit knows he plays a character and feels MMA has been lacking big personalities. Strickland had a critique for Hokit during his UFC 328 media day session. The former UFC Middleweight Champion isn’t a fan of the shtick (h/t MMAFighting).

“It’s like Josh Hokit. It’s like dude, you’re a grown ass man,” Strickland said. “You’re almost 30 years old and you’re acting like f*cking Jake Paul when he was 13. Like stop, bro. You made it. People know who you are. Just stop. You don’t got to go interview homeless people and be f*cking weird. Just fight now.”

Hokit took to his X account to address Strickland’s comments. It’s clear that “The Incredible Hok” isn’t planning on changing how he is presenting himself anytime soon.

“[Sean] Strickland, complaining about a persona is like a circus clown complaining about too many balloons. You’re just mad because my WWE skit has better ratings than your personality.”

Hokit’s stock has never been higher after his “Fight of the Night” performance against Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327. Hokit also earned a “Performance of the Night” bonus for his unanimous decision win over Blaydes. Hokit already has his next fight secured. He will be facing Derrick Lewis on the UFC Freedom 250 card, which is scheduled to take place on June 14.

As for Strickland, he’ll be looking to become a two-time UFC Middleweight Champion on Saturday. Strickland will challenge Khamzat Chimaev, who won the title against Dricus du Plessis back in Aug. 2025. The 185-pound clash for the gold is set to headline UFC 328 in Newark.

What do you make of Sean Strickland’s comments about Josh Hokit’s polarizing personality? Chime in with your opinion in the comments below.