Curtis Blaydes and Josh Hawkit faced off before their UFC 327 bout, with Blaydes appearing indifferent to Hawkit's behavior. The post notes that Blaydes stated during Wednesday's media day that he won't participate in promotional theatrics or help Hawkit gain attention. Blaydes is keeping his word by remaining unbothered. The post includes a poll asking fans who will win the fight. No details about weight class or fight card position are provided.
Curtis Blaydes made good on his pre-fight promise at the UFC 327 face-off on Thursday, refusing to engage with Josh Hawkit's attempts to draw a reaction ahead of their heavyweight bout scheduled for April 11.
Blaydes, who told media during Wednesday's availability that he had no intention of playing along with promotional antics or helping his opponent build a profile, stood composed and unmoved as Hawkit attempted to generate a moment during the staredown.
The 35-year-old American carries a 19-6-0 record into the contest and enters ranked fourth in the heavyweight division. Fighting out of Elevation Fight Team, the six-foot-four orthodox striker brings an 80-inch reach and a well-rounded offensive game to the cage. Blaydes lands 3.56 significant strikes per minute at a 50 percent accuracy rate, and his wrestling remains among the most persistent in the division at 5.38 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- A win keeps Blaydes firmly in the heavyweight title conversation as a top-four contender.
- His disciplined pre-fight demeanor mirrors his in-cage style — methodical, pressure-based, and difficult to disrupt.
- The matchup tests whether Hawkit can translate pre-fight energy into an actual tactical advantage inside the octagon.
Blaydes has positioned himself as the experienced, focused veteran entering UFC 327, and his stonefaced performance at the face-off suggests his mental preparation matches his physical readiness heading into fight night.
Saturday, April 11, 2026
