Last year, Josh Hokit entered the UFC as a prospect who aspired to become one of the world’s most well-known heavyweights. Within a very short period, the Californian ‌achieved that dream. Right now, the 28-year-old sits at No. 5 in the UFC heavyweight rankings after a stellar victory over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327. However, Hokit’s rise may just be beginning, as he prepares to steal the show at the UFC’s biggest event yet.

On June 14th, Josh Hokit is set to face the promotion’s most prolific knockout artist, Derrick Lewis, at the UFC White House event. Even though his opponent is ranked lower, Hokit could firmly position himself for a title shot if he delivers a statement performance at UFC Freedom 250. But before the Californian puts on another impressive show, let’s take a look at the stories behind the various tattoos on his body

What is the meaning of Josh Hokit’s chest tattoo?

Whenever Josh Hokit fights, fans can’t help but notice his meticulously drawn chest tattoo. The Californian has a massive lion inked across his chest, wearing a crown. Typically, a lion tattoo symbolizes leadership and authority. Looking at Hokit’s demeanor and his confidence on the mic, that meaning seems to align well with his personality.

Beyond that, a lion tattoo also represents self-pride. As for its origin, the UFC heavyweight hasn’t revealed much, but it appears to be a personal choice rather than something with a specific meaning. However, Hokit isn’t the only one who boasts a lion tattoo.

Most famously, former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira also has a lion tattoo. But the difference between him and Hokit is that ‘Do Bronxs’ lion tattoo is drawn on his back, covering the entire area. When it comes to tattoos, the 28-year-old’s chest piece definitely catches the eye. Yet, he has added more body art that is equally interesting.

Are there any other tattoos on Josh Hokit’s body?

In addition to the chest tattoo, Josh Hokit also has a pretty astonishing arm piece. He has a powerful-looking Spartan inked on his shoulder that extends down to his elbow, with detailed elements throughout. Following that, there’s a scary-looking fox or wolf, carefully enhanced with trees and geometric shapes around it. On his bicep, Hokit carries elements of the Spartan theme.

He also inked a quote in Gothic font, “Not by might nor by power but by my Spirit,” which is a verse from the Bible, Zechariah 4:6. In the biblical verse, God provides a message of encouragement to Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah. It serves as a reminder that success is achieved through the will and wish of the divine rather than human strength or resources.

Lastly, Hokit’s love for Spartan imagery continues with another warrior tattoo, this time shown fighting a lion on his leg. And if you haven’t guessed by now, another UFC fighter, Cody Durden, is also a Spartan fan, with a similar warrior tattoo on his chest. It makes sense for fighters to choose ancient Greek warriors, as they symbolize strength, agility, and power inside the Octagon.

With Hokit ready to challenge one of the vicious heavyweight fighters in UFC history at the biggest stage the UFC has ever produced, it would be interesting to see whether he inks another tattoo to etch the moment forever on his body.