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Curtis Blaydes expressed genuine respect for Josh Hockit despite disliking his personality and pre-fight antics. Blaydes explained it would be insincere and hypocritical to dismiss Hockit's fighting ability, acknowledging that his opponent can truly fight. While Blaydes doesn't appreciate Hockit's persona or behavior, he stated he absolutely respects him inside the Octagon when they're facing each other with gloves on. The heavyweight questioned how he could not respect someone with legitimate fighting skills, regardless of personal feelings about their character outside competition.
AgentMMA.com
