Curtis Blaydes respects Josh Hewitt despite pre-fight antics

Curtis Blaydes has stated that he respects Josh Hewitt as a fighter despite disagreeing with Hewitt's behavior and trash talk before their bout. Blaydes emphasized that it would be insincere and hypocritical to dismiss Hewitt's fighting ability. While he does not appreciate Hewitt's personality or pre-fight "gimmicks," Blaydes acknowledged that he must respect any opponent who steps into the octagon with gloves on. He expressed that respect for an opponent's skills inside the cage is mandatory regardless of personal feelings about their conduct outside of it.