Following Josh Emmett's victory over Curtis Blaydes at UFC 327, his fighting approach has drawn both praise and criticism. While Emmett can fight more defensively, his aggressive persona and middle-finger gestures force him to maintain a reckless style that resulted in him absorbing significant strikes against Blaydes. The analysis suggests this approach would lead to knockout losses against elite strikers like Alex Pereira or Sergei Pavlovich. However, Emmett demonstrated improved striking power that didn't fade even in the exhausting third round, showing effectiveness with elbow strikes and easily defending Blaydes' wrestling attempts. His coaching team of Jackson-Wink has helped develop his striking variety, though his behavior contrasts sharply with his trainers' professionalism. The piece notes his style perfectly aligns with Dana White and Donald Trump's preferences, particularly given Trump's front-row presence at the event.
Saturday, April 11, 2026
