Curtis Blaydes and Josh Hawkit have faced off for the first time ahead of their fight at UFC 327. The official staredown marks the initial pre-fight promotional encounter between the two heavyweight contenders. The post shows fan engagement with supporters choosing sides. Additional details about the fight's placement on the card are not provided.
Curtis Blaydes and Josh Hawkit came face to face for the first time Wednesday, completing their opening pre-fight staredown just days before they collide at UFC 327 on April 11.
Blaydes, known as "Razor," enters the bout ranked fourth in the heavyweight division with a record of 19 wins and 6 losses. The 35-year-old American trains out of Elevation Fight Team and brings a physically imposing frame to the matchup, standing six-foot-four with an 80-inch reach. He has built his reputation as one of the most relentless wrestlers in the division, averaging 5.38 takedowns per 15 minutes throughout his career. His striking output is also notable, landing 3.56 significant strikes per minute at a 50 percent accuracy rate.
Hawkit does not appear in the verified fighter database, and no additional record or ranking details are available at this stage.
Why it matters
- Blaydes sits at number four in the heavyweight rankings, meaning a strong performance could push him closer to title contention
- His elite takedown volume presents a clear stylistic test for any opponent willing to stand and trade
- Fan engagement from the staredown post suggests the matchup has generated genuine interest heading into UFC 327
The faceoff image drew supporters to both sides ahead of what shapes up as a meaningful heavyweight contest on the card.
Saturday, April 11, 2026
