Ciryl Gane defended his undisputed heavyweight title against Josh Hokit on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, winning a unanimous decision at Madison Square Garden during UFC 334, Yahoo Sports reported.
The 36-year-old champion weathered a relentless pace from the challenger to secure the victory. CBS Sports said that Gane relied on his cardio in the championship rounds to turn the tide.
Hokit pushed the pace across all five rounds with takedown attempts and heavy pressure. Yahoo Sports described the bout as a back-and-forth contest featuring heavy strikes and clinch battles.
"This guy is a m*****f**ker. He did very well." [ #UFC334 | LIVE on @paramountplus ] pic.twitter.com/R2GNO8i9tR
Madison Square Garden Clash
Sportsnaut reported that the former NFL player reached a title opportunity just over three years after his promotional debut.
Gane earned the undisputed belt after years of chasing the title. Yahoo Sports said that the Frenchman previously won an interim title five years prior to this defense.
“I wil rejoice in my suffering. Suffering builds endurance, endurance builds character, and character builds hope. I will never lose hope. I will be champion one day. You guys can kick me when you’re down; I’ll still break your f**king leg.” [ #UFC334 | LIVE on @paramountplus ] pic.twitter.com/WnlsuUR9cz
UFC.com reported that the bout set a high mark for total strikes thrown and landed in the heavyweight division. Both fighters absorbed significant damage over 25 minutes.
Gane retained his heavyweight title via unanimous decision
Gane found a second wind in the later rounds. CBS Sports reported that the champion started landing cleaner shots as Hokit’s energy waned.

The judges ultimately scored the bout in favor of Gane. UFC.com confirmed that the champion retained his belt via unanimous decision after the grueling encounter.
Who won the UFC 334 main event?
Who won the UFC 334 main event?
Ciryl Gane defeated Josh Hokit by unanimous decision to retain his undisputed heavyweight title on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, at Madison Square Garden.
Fairytale finishes 🤩 @KaylaH & @WonderboyMMA showed out to earn POTN bonuses at #Polymarket #UFC334! [ B2YB @STC_Canada ] pic.twitter.com/UA5eLDU0oo
How long did Josh Hokit take to reach a title shot?
Josh Hokit earned his title opportunity just three years and one month after making his promotional debut with the UFC, according to Yahoo Sports.
What venue hosted UFC 334?
Madison Square Garden in New York City hosted the event on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, as reported by Yahoo Sports and Sportsnaut.
Was there ever a doubt 😤 @Ciryl_Gane & @Josh_HokitUFC left it all in the Octagon to earn FOTN honors! [ #Polymarket #UFC334 | B2YB @ToyoTires ] pic.twitter.com/WIIuOuqaJX
Earlier coverage: Ciryl Gane Defeats Josh Hokit to Retain UFC Heavyweight Title
Keep reading