Analysis: Hockitt can fight better but image demands reckless style, Blaydes fight reviewed

An analyst assessed Josh Hockitt's performance against Curtis Blaydes, noting that while Hockitt could fight more defensively to avoid taking numerous shots, his established image and use of middle fingers requires him to maintain his aggressive persona. The piece acknowledged that such reckless attacks would likely lead to knockout losses against fighters like Pereira or Pavlovich. Despite the criticism, the analyst praised Hockitt's improving power, noting his hands remained heavy even in the exhausting third round, and his use of elbows showed growing versatility from training with Winkeljohn. Hockitt's takedown defense was also highlighted as elite-level, easily deflecting all of Blaydes' wrestling attempts. The analyst suggested Hockitt's behavior perfectly matches the Trump-Dana White era with its emphasis on spectacle. Looking ahead, while not dismissing Derrick Lewis, the concern is Lewis may prioritize collecting a paycheck over winning, especially fighting in front of Trump at the White House.