Josh Hawkit secured a victory over Curtis Blaydes, but his performance revealed significant defensive vulnerabilities as he absorbed numerous strikes. While Hawkit demonstrated improved striking power and effective elbow work in the third round, along with strong takedown defense, analysts warn his aggressive brawling style could lead to knockout losses against elite strikers like Pereira or Pavlovich. His coaches Jackson and Winkeljohn have developed his striking versatility, but his reckless approach—which played well before Trump and Dana White—may prove costly against top competition. A potential matchup with Derrick Lewis is mentioned, though concerns exist that Lewis may prioritize a payday over victory.
