From Gridiron to Octagon: Ex-Football Star Josh Hokit Shines in Week 2 of Contender Series

Las Vegas, August 19, 2025 — Former Fresno State football standout Josh Hokit is making headlines again, but this time not on the football field. The ex-fullback turned mixed martial artist stepped into the spotlight during Week 2 of Dana White’s Contender Series, showcasing both athletic grit and determination as he continues his transition from professional football to the cage.

A Journey From the NFL to MMA

Hokit’s path is unlike most fighters who appear on the Contender Series. Once a promising dual-sport athlete, he made his mark as a powerful running back and fullback at Fresno State University, later signing with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2020. Although his NFL career was brief, Hokit's competitive drive never waned.

After football, he sought a new outlet for his physicality and discipline, turning to mixed martial arts. His wrestling background — he was a state champion wrestler in high school and a collegiate competitor — gave him a strong foundation to adapt quickly inside the cage.

Contender Series Opportunity

The Contender Series, launched in 2017 by UFC President Dana White, has become a proving ground for up-and-coming fighters. Week 2 of the 2025 season drew significant attention, partly because of Hokit's story and crossover appeal.

Facing a seasoned opponent, Hokit demonstrated composure beyond his professional fighting years. His wrestling pedigree allowed him to control key grappling exchanges, while his striking showed clear improvement since his early amateur bouts. Analysts noted his ability to adapt mid-fight, a quality often missing in athletes transitioning from other sports.

Reactions From Analysts and Fans

MMA analysts praised Hokit for his tenacity and well-rounded performance, suggesting he may have a future on the UFC roster if he continues on this trajectory. Fans also took to social media to highlight his resilience and athletic crossover success.

“Josh Hokit is not just a former football player dabbling in MMA — he’s a legitimate prospect who has the potential to grow into a serious contender,” said one analyst with MMA Fighting.

For Dana White and the UFC matchmakers, Hokit's performance raised important questions about whether he fits the bill for a contract this season. While not every Contender Series appearance ends with an immediate UFC signing, his showing certainly boosted his stock.

What This Means for Hokit's Future

The pathway from football to MMA is rare, but not unprecedented. Greg Hardy, another former NFL player, once transitioned into the UFC with mixed results. Hokit, however, seems to be building his reputation differently, leaning heavily on his wrestling roots rather than relying solely on athleticism.

For American fans, his journey offers a compelling storyline — one that blends the toughness of football with the discipline of martial arts. As more athletes seek new avenues after their professional football careers, Hokit’s progress could inspire others to consider MMA as a viable path.

Broader Implications for MMA

The presence of crossover athletes like Hokit also highlights the expanding reach of the UFC and combat sports in general. With football being the most-watched sport in the United States, fighters like him bring new audiences to MMA. This crossover not only boosts UFC’s visibility but also deepens the sport’s mainstream credibility.

Whether or not Hokit receives a UFC contract in the coming weeks, his appearance in Week 2 of the Contender Series has already positioned him as a fighter to watch. His resilience, background, and determination could make him one of the most interesting new faces in the sport.