Curtis Blaydes says he respects Josh Hewitt despite pre-fight trash talk

Curtis Blaydes has publicly stated that he respects Josh Hewitt as a fighter, despite not appreciating Hewitt's personality or promotional antics before their bout. Blaydes emphasized that it would be insincere and hypocritical to deny Hewitt's fighting ability. He acknowledged that while he may not like Hewitt's behavior outside the cage, he cannot help but respect him once they are in the Octagon with gloves on. Blaydes made it clear that respect for an opponent's skill is separate from personal feelings about their character. The comments suggest Blaydes maintains a professional attitude toward competition regardless of pre-fight rivalries.