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Standout Clovis Athlete Pivots to Combat Sports With Multi-Fight Deal

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Clovis High and Fresno State standout Josh Hokit has joined his brother, Isaiah, as a fighter with international mixed martial arts promoter Bellator. (GV Wire Composite/Paul Marshall)
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Former Clovis High and Fresno State standout Josh Hokit signed a multi-fight mixed martial arts contract Friday with major international combat-sports promoter Bellator MMA.

The 25-year-old Hokit will fight as a heavyweight. He joins his older brother, Isaiah, who has been competing as a featherweight with Bellator since 2021.

“This is the next chapter of my life,” Hokit told Sports Illustrated. “[Bellator CEO] Scott Coker is willing to give me a chance. It feels like the right fit, and I’m ready to go,” Hokit said.

Born in Clovis, Hokit was a top ranked prep wrestler, rising as high as No. 3 in the nation as a senior. He also excelled in football for the Cougars.

All-American Wrestling Honors

At Fresno State, he twice earned All-America honors as a wrestler and played tight end and fullback for the Bulldogs.

After college, Hokit spent two years with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted reserve and on the practice squad. He was later briefly signed to the Arizona Cardinals. 

His MMA debut is likely to be in August, according to SI. He is currently training in Las Vegas with his brother.

“I have that warrior spirit,” says Hokit. “There’s no better way to exercise that than fighting in Bellator.”

Randy Reed is a writer and content producer for GV Wire. He has experience reporting for local radio stations and newspapers. In addition, he an extensive background in video production focused on news and documentary subjects. Reed is a proud graduate of California State University, Fresno with a degree in Mass Communications. In his free time, Reed enjoys digital photography as a hobby and loves to explore the scenic beauty of our Valley’s three spectacular National Parks. You can contact Randy at 559-705-2107 or Send an Email.

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