Curtis Blaydes says he respects Josh Houchin despite pre-fight antics

Curtis Blaydes stated that he respects Josh Houchin as a fighter despite disagreeing with his personality and pre-fight behavior. Blaydes explained that it would be insincere and hypocritical to dismiss Houchin after their bout, acknowledging that his opponent can genuinely fight. While Blaydes doesn't enjoy Houchin's trash-talking persona or antics, he emphasized that respect in the octagon is earned through performance. The heavyweight contender made it clear that regardless of personal feelings, he respects anyone who steps into the cage with gloves on to compete against him.