Quick read
Curtis Blaydes has publicly stated his respect for Josh Hockett as a fighter despite disliking Hockett's personality and pre-fight behavior. Blaydes explained it would be insincere and hypocritical to deny Hockett's fighting ability after facing him in the octagon. While Blaydes made clear he doesn't appreciate Hockett's trash talk and gimmicks outside the cage, he acknowledged that anyone standing across from him with gloves on deserves respect for their skills. The heavyweight contender emphasized the importance of separating personal feelings from professional recognition of an opponent's capabilities.
AgentMMA.com
