Curtis Blaydes says he respects Josh Hockett despite pre-fight behavior

Curtis Blaydes has expressed respect for Josh Hockett despite Hockett's trash talk and behavior leading up to their fight. Blaydes stated it would be insincere and hypocritical to call Hockett derogatory names after their bout. While Blaydes says he doesn't like Hockett's personality or his promotional tactics, he respects him as a fighter inside the octagon. Blaydes emphasized that when they stand across from each other with gloves on, he has no choice but to respect Hockett's fighting ability. The comments reflect Blaydes' professional attitude toward separating personal feelings from competitive respect.