Curtis Blaydes expresses respect for Josh Hewitt despite pre-fight antics

Curtis Blaydes stated that he respects Josh Hewitt as a fighter despite disliking his personality and pre-fight behavior. Blaydes explained it would be insincere and hypocritical to dismiss Hewitt's abilities after their fight. While Blaydes dislikes Hewitt's antics and persona outside the cage, he emphasized that he must respect any opponent who steps into the Octagon with gloves on. Blaydes acknowledged that Hewitt can genuinely fight, separating his feelings about the person from his assessment of the fighter's skills.